While historians and blackjack aficionados continue to argue about the historic background of the game, there's no quibbling over its popularity today. The most widely played casino game in the United States, blackjack is a firm favourite across the globe.
But where did this game of chance and smart decisions come from? And how has it grown into a worldwide passion? Let's take a stroll through history to explore the origins of blackjack...

THE BEGINNINGS

The true origins of blackjack remain shrouded in a certain degree of mystery. Not even historians appear able to agree on a firm answer. However, there are a few widely held opinions. Many people are convinced that the game originated in France around 1700...

VINGT-ET-UN IN FRANCE

Then known as Vingt-un (or Vingt-et-Un) which literally translates as 21, this early incarnation of blackjack is believed to have been widely played in French casinos before making its way into British and American culture as many French fled abroad to escape the French revolution.
In Britain and the USA the game was known by its French name throughout the 19th and much of the 20th century. Difficult for English speakers to pronounce, the name was often corrupted to “Van John” and some people believe this mispronunciation even gave rise to the name “Pontoon” which is still used to describe the game in some British circles today.

VENTIUNA IN SPAIN

But this isn't the only blackjack origin story. In fact, this casino favourite may actually have started its life in Spain, where author Miguel de Cervantes wrote a short story called Rinconete y Cortadillo in 1601, far before the French casino records. In this story of two gambling cheats, the eponymous main characters are especially good at making their money in a game called Ventiuna (which also translates as 21).

As de Cervantes describes the game, the similarities become even more clear. In Ventiuna, ace can be one or 11 and players must reach but not exceed 21. Although the historic Spanish deck of the day (known as a Baraja deck) lacked eights and nines, its hard to ignore just how similar these games are. Perhaps this was the game which inspired the French version which ultimately travelled to Western shores?

THE AMERICAN “REVOLUTION”

It was blackjack's more recent history in America which really cemented the game's global popularity. When the state of Nevada made gambling legal in 1931, many local casinos offered a special bet to promote the game: any winning hand which included a black jack (of spades or clubs) would pay 10:1 odds on the player's original bet. It is believed that this promotional tactic is the source of the name “blackjack” today.

Now we've whetted your appetite with a bit of blackjack background, why not try your hand at a fresh round of this historic game? Our exciting digital tables are fast, fun and simple to use. Play online today.

Now we've whetted your appetite with a bit of blackjack background, why not try your hand at a fresh round of this historic game? Our exciting digital tables are fast, fun and simple to use. Play online today.