I’ve posted the latest in the Occasional Paper Series over at the Center for Gaming Research. It’s a great read:
Paper 03: May 2010
Theodore Whiting. “The History of Baccarat,” Occasional Paper Series 3. Las Vegas: Center for Gaming Research, University Libraries, University of Nevada Las Vegas, 2010.
Abstract: The true origins of modern Baccarat are probably lost to history. The first time the game Baccarat spelled Baccara was mentioned in print by a contemporary observer was in the early 19th century. The written record that would document the origins and evolution of the game is, unfortunately, incomplete. However, a close examination of the available material reveals some interesting facts surrounding the history of Baccarat, including a much earlier date for its arrival in the United States, that validates its continuing study.
Keywords: casino games, baccarat, game history
View the paper here (pdf)
via UNLV Center for Gaming Research: Occasional Paper Series.
I guarantee that you’ll learn a few things about the history of baccarat reading this paper. I know that I did.