This History of Lottery

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People often ask where the concept of Lottery / Lotto came from, so here goes a brief
history 101 of lottery. The origins of lotteries go back and wide. In the bible “Casting
lots” is mentioned. The first real lottery to give winners prizes bgan in Florence, Italy, in
the early 16th century. It was called “Lotto de Firenze” which is why in many parts of
the world the Lottery is still referred to as the ‘Lotto’

During Colonial times, lotteries becam popular in America. Most took palce to support
charities or local fund raising purposes such as churches, schools and community
centers.

In the 19th century due to a range of draconian laws and prohibitions on gambling arroud
the world, lottery popularity fell by the wayside. Things returned in late in the 20th
century. New Hampshire held its first state lottery in 1964. Followed by other states in
coming years. Popularity grew with the prize levels till today where over 100 million
people play the lottery every week.