History of Baccarat
| Updated: How Baccarat Became the Casino Game It Is Today
Baccarat is a classic card game that was once played exclusively by members of the upper class, with bet limits that regularly exceeded what ordinary players could afford. The exact origin of the game is still debated, as evidence suggests that several locations adopted it as a sophisticated pastime. Interestingly, every country in which Baccarat became popular introduced its own specific rules, which is why players today can choose from several variations of the card game.
As Baccarat has become a staple at numerous online casinos, players can choose from various versions of the game. Moreover, Baccarat has come a long way from its high-stakes beginnings and is now equally accessible to both high rollers and recreational players.
Origins
Although the exact time of the game’s emergence remains unknown, its origins can be traced back to the 15th century. Over the years, scholars have held heated debates in an effort to determine the period more precisely. The exact location is equally contested. Some claim that Baccarat was invented in Italy by the gambler Felix Falguierein. When the game was first played in the Middle Ages, a deck of Tarot cards was used. Another widely held belief is that the game was based on an ancient legend, which makes its history even more mysterious and intriguing.
Since Baccarat is considered an Italian invention, its name is thought to derive from the Italian word for zero, baccara. It is believed that the game was named after this number because, according to the rules, all face cards and tens carry a value of zero. Today, Baccarat is famous worldwide, and players can easily find the game under this name at many reputable online casinos.
Shortly after its introduction in Italy, the game gained popularity in France, predominantly among the French nobility. It remained exclusive to the upper class for a considerable time before spreading to the general public. Each country leaves its cultural imprint on games, and when a game enters a new territory its rules are often adapted to suit local players. Baccarat was no exception. As it became popular in various countries, the rules inevitably evolved, and in some places the game even became known by a different name—Chemin de Fer.
Chemin de Fer
One reason the French sometimes claim to have invented the game is that the French variant, Chemin de Fer, has become extremely popular worldwide. One of its most distinctive features is that the role of the banker is assumed by the players themselves. Before play begins, one participant is appointed banker, but every player gets to hold this position at some point during the game.
The banker deals the cards and, at the beginning of each round, must place a wager. The other participants, known as punters, may choose to ‘go bank’—that is, match the banker’s stake and compete against the bank. Only one player is allowed to make this move per round.
Variations of the game
Over the years, Baccarat spread to other countries, including the United Kingdom and China. It later reached South America, and eventually the rest of the world discovered the game. Initially, wherever it was played, Baccarat was a form of entertainment reserved for the wealthy, largely because it was a high-stakes game that few could afford. Its sophisticated allure attracted many royals, including King Edward VII. One famous Baccarat dispute involving the king occurred in the 19th century.
When the game reached England, it became known as European Baccarat. Compared with the original version, it introduced several key differences, primarily concerning the rules for drawing a third card. In European Baccarat, players may draw an extra card when their hand totals five. The banker, who in this case is a casino representative, may also choose to do so.
When the game was introduced to America in the 19th century, it initially attracted little attention because Blackjack was already popular. Later, however, Cuban players embraced it and its popularity soared. This led to the emergence of the American variant known as Punto Banco, which is considered one of the most famous versions of the game. A more recent offshoot is Mini Baccarat, which allows players of all budgets to enjoy the game.
Over the years, Punto Banco has attracted countless players and is now commonly referred to as North American Baccarat. Today, it can be played both in brick-and-mortar casinos and online. Before playing, it is essential to become familiar with the game’s rules and the casino’s policies. In particular, players should understand the fixed rules governing the drawing of additional cards. It is also worth noting that, in this variant, the role of the banker is not assumed by a player.
Conclusion
Baccarat is one of the oldest casino games, and it is no surprise that it has undergone significant changes over the years. As a result, players today can enjoy numerous variations and experience this sophisticated game in many different ways.
The game is no longer exclusive to the upper class; versions such as Mini Baccarat allow players of all bankrolls to enjoy it. Almost every online casino now offers Baccarat, a clear indicator that the game continues to appeal to a wide range of gamblers. It is also among the most popular live-dealer games, allowing participants to play in real time with a professional dealer.