Friday, March 31, 2006

GAMBLING or gaming, betting of money or valuables on, and often participation in, games of chance (some involving degrees of skill). Gambling was not a common-law crime if conducted privately. Even in colonial America, however, gambling was liable to rankle public opinion because it was often associated with rowdy activities and could. It is comprehensive, accurate, and well-organized. Furthermore, it is well-written in the kind of breezy, informal style best suited to the subject matter. The replete with history and anecdotes, some true and some probably fictional, as well as biographical sketches of celebrities who are associated with gambling in its many forms. The author is not shy about expressing his personal opinions and recounting some stories from his own experiences. This is an excellent choice for someone who wants to learn about or study gambling. Gambling has had many different meanings depending on the cultural and historical context in which it is used. Currently, in western society, it generally has an economic definition and meaning and typically refers to wagering money or something of material value on something with an uncertain outcome in hope of winning additional money or material goods. Read further...