Blackjack may not be as popular as poker in the public eye, but it is played in casinos more frequently than poker. There are quite a few interesting facts about it and its rich history. This article will give you a better understanding of them. Before we get into the most interesting facts and myths about the game let’s learn more about its history.
The Rich History of Blackjack
The earliest traces of blackjack are linked to France and the 17th century, that is, to the game called Vingt-et-Un, translated as “21”. However, an Italian game called the Seven and a Half card game is considered to have shaped today’s blackjack. Variations of this game were present in North America during the XIX century, and during 1930 in Nevada when gambling was legalized, blackjack became relevant again.
Blackjack differs from poker and similar games in that the players at the table do not play against each other, but each plays independently with his cards against the dealer. The only casino game where the player has an advantage is blackjack.
However, mathematical advantage alone does not mean much. Much like roulette or poker, it’s a good idea to use some sort of game system or strategy. That way, you won’t be at a loss even when you’re having a bad day. The most commonly used strategy is card counting, if you are interested you can find out how to count cards in blackjack, a strategy that teaches you how to win at blackjack. With this in mind, the players have a significant advantage over the house, especially with regard to blackjack and masterful strategies. So let us take a look at some facts about the game that even Napoleon Bonaparte played.
Facts & Myths
- A famous author wrote the first record of blackjack. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra mentions blackjack in Don Quixote.
- The most famous French military and political leader, Napoleon Bonaparte, was a lover of blackjack – an activity he enjoyed during his exile on Elba.
- Card counting is an effective method of winning at blackjack. Additionally, it’s not as complicated as people think, nor is it illegal. Some countries will politely ask you to leave, however.
- There is a small advantage for the dealer if he is the last. Approximately 48 percent of the time, the dealer will win, while 44 percent of the time, the players will win.
- In long-term data analysis, it has been shown that the dealer has an average card value of 18.
- In terms of the best hand, 21 is best, followed by 20… however, you are wrong if you think 19 is the third best hand. It is the number 11. Essentially, it gives you the opportunity to draw another card with little risk, resulting in a good thing.
- There have been a number of bans on blackjack throughout history. A ban on it was enacted during the French Revolution, for example. The game of blackjack was illegal in the United States for most of the 19th century. It became legal in 1930.
- San Diego’s Barona Casino has a hall of fame dedicated to Blackjack. Players who make the A-list are given free rooms, meals, and drinks. The casino, however, does not permit them to play.
- There is no way to ensure that a good shuffle is achieved by just shuffling the cards once. Usually, cards with a value of 10 remain next to each other after a previous game. Two or more shuffles are necessary in order to mix the cards well.
- A beginner tends to lose when he or she is too focused on getting 21 in their hand. You only need to beat the dealer to win.
So there you have it, a game that has been played by famous historical figures and even mentioned in the well-known novel Don Quixote.
If you play for fun you can always choose blackjack and enjoy great fun. However, before entering the details of the game, it is recommended that you practice several times so that you understand the initial steps. Blackjack is considered one of the best games that can be quickly learned. So, practice the game before spending real money on it and apply different strategies to progress as a player.
