The Gambling Century: Commercial Gaming in Britain from Restoration to Regency

Gambling was a prominent feature of the "long eighteenth century" between the age of religious wars and the age of revolutions, driven by social mobility, new wealth, and the public imagination. It was also fostered by new interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, opening the possibility of games of chance as a profitable commercial venture. The Gambling Century focuses on those who enabled, facilitated, and profited from gambling, as well as on efforts to regulate or outlaw it.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Gambling, a captivating phenomenon that emerged during the dramatic "long eighteenth century," spanning the era of religious wars and the age of revolutions, holds a unique place in history. This societal encounter with games of chance, pursued not only for entertainment but also as commercial ventures, brought forth unprecedented social mobility fueled by the newfound wealth derived from various trades, including sugar, cotton, ivory, silk, tea, and the exploitation of human beings. Moreover, the notion of playing for money permeated the public imagination, becoming an integral part of everyday life. It was not uncommon for prospective spouses in period fiction to be evaluated based on their annual income, akin to the valuation of municipal bonds. Similarly, the archetypal gambler, portrayed in fiction, media, and politics, captured the attention and fascination of the masses. Simultaneously, a renewed interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, driven and supported by those in power, cultivated a profound appreciation for mathematical probability and its myriad applications. This newfound understanding opened the door to the possibility of gambling as a profitable commercial enterprise.

The Gambling Century stands out as a groundbreaking work, as it delves into the intricate dynamics of gambling, encompassing those who enabled, facilitated, and profited from it. It also explores the efforts made to regulate or outlaw gambling, providing a comprehensive perspective on this multifaceted phenomenon. By utilizing extensive archival material and printed sources, the book traces the lives of its subjects, from the opulent courts to the cozy coffeehouses, private clubs, and "at homes" in townhouses. These settings, reminiscent of the modern casino, serve as a testament to the evolution of gambling over time.

The Gambling Century offers a rich tapestry of historical insights, shedding light on the social, economic, and cultural transformations that occurred during this pivotal period. It explores how gambling became a means of entertainment, a source of wealth, and a catalyst for social change. It also examines the complex relationships between gamblers, operators, and the authorities who sought to regulate or control the industry. Through its detailed narratives and comprehensive analysis, the book provides a valuable contribution to the understanding of gambling's historical significance and its ongoing impact on society.

In conclusion, the Gambling Century is a must-read for anyone interested in history, social sciences
dynamics, and the fascinating world of gambling. It offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of this captivating phenomenon, providing a deeper understanding of its origins, historical context, and societal implications. By delving into the lives of those who enabled, facilitated, and profited from gambling, as well as the efforts to regulate or outlaw it, the book sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of this industry. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of gambling, the insights and lessons learned from the Gambling Century will remain invaluable in our quest to comprehend the past and shape the future.

Weight: 616g
Dimension: 160 x 243 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192888198