The game of Baccarat has its roots back in the Middle Ages. Some
say that the game was originally played using Tarot deck. While starting
in Italy it soon found its way to France where it became quite popular
among the upper classes. As it evolved it split into two games, the
European baccarat, and the French game of 'chemin de fer'.
The game of Chemin de fer is in many ways similar to the game of
baccarat that is played today in American casinos. The only difference
is that a player acts as banker rather than the casino. The position
of banker rotates from one player to the next much like the passing
of the dice at a craps table. There is however, no risk on the part
of the casino which simply charges a fee to each banker.
Baccarat as it is played today in the United States has its origins
in Great Britain. From there is want to South America, finally arriving
in Nevada. The game was introduced by the Dunes casino in the late
50's. In more recent times it has made its way to the web where it
can now be played online
There is a history of Baccarat overseas as well, demonstrated by
its popularity with Asians who travel to Las Vegas each year. Some
of the very highest high rollers are those who travel from abroad to
Vegas to try their hand at the Vegas baccarat rooms. At casinos in
Portuguese Macao, which is located geographically near Hong Kong, its
popularity is without rival. Less systematic than the American casinos,
these Portuguese casinos will let multiple players bet on a single
spot concomitantly as expert dealers are able to mentally record the
commission of each player who win bank bets.
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