The History of Bingo |
Bingo is a game many people in many countries enjoy on a regular basis. The thrill of completing a card and winning prizes is a joy common to many nations.
However, Bingo most certainly had its beginnings in Europe, namely Italy. In 1530, a form on Bingo known as Lo Gioco del Lotto D'Italia was born. The passion for this game soon spread to France. At this point, the Bingo card as we know it today was created.
The Germans were next in line to develop a love for Bingo. However, they put a decidedly academic twist on the game and used Bingo to help students in such subjects as math, spelling, and history.
Bingo spread to the America's in 1929. However, Bingo was not called Bingo at this time. Instead, players referred to the game as Beano. Many times, players would get together at carnivals where the caller would pluck pieces with numbers on them from old cigar boxes.
So, rather than yelling, “Bingo,” a player would yell “Beano!” The sounds were different, but the structure of and love for the game were the same.
In fact, the name Bingo originated through a mistake a player made. This excited player called “Bingo” rather than “Beano” during one game, resulting in a complete change of nomenclature.
Edwin S. Lowe is responsible for fashioning the Bingo game in its modern form that we play today. With the help of a mathematician, Lowe determined a way of increasing the number of cards available for play during a game, thereby increasing the number of participants allowed during a game. Lowe soon produced Bingo as a boxed set that was sold in stores around the world.
Before long, a pastor of a church realized the money making potential of Bingo. But, rather than forbidding his parishioners to indulge in their passion, he used Bingo for good and began using the game for fundraising.
Today, many people the world over use Bingo as a fundraiser, educational tool, and pleasurable hobby. From Lo Gioco del Lotto D'Italia to Beano to Bingo, the game now enjoys a wide and loyal following. Bingo halls around the world are always packed with those with a love for this fascinating game. |
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