Gambling traditions around the world reveal the intricate connections between culture, society, and the human desire for excitement and competition. Whether it’s the strategy and superstition of mahjong in China, the opulence of Monte Carlo’s casinos, or the communal spirit of Spain’s El Gordo lottery, each tradition tells a unique story.

Card games became the dominant form of social gambling. Even today, poker is one of the most popular forms of social gambling. Lotteries were likely the first form of commercial gambling. Table games, such as the forerunners of roulette and blackjack, appeared much later.

Gambling is a multifaceted activity with deep cultural significance in different parts of the world. From the traditional games of China and the lotteries of Spain to the casino culture of the United States and the community-focused gambling in New Zealand, each region has its unique approach to gambling.