History of Bingo

Bingo has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 500 years. Here’s a brief overview:

16th Century: Italy
The earliest known precursor to Bingo was an Italian lottery game called “Lo Giuoco del Lotto D’Italia,” played in 1530.

18th Century: France
The French adapted the game, calling it “Le Lotto,” and added the concept of a caller and a prize for the winner.

19th Century: Germany
The Germans developed a version called “Tombola,” which was played at carnivals and fairs.

Early 20th Century: United States
Bingo as we know it today was popularized in the United States in the early 20th century. It was initially called “Beano” and was played at carnivals and traveling fairs.

1929: Edwin S. Lowe
Edwin S. Lowe, a toy salesman, discovered the game at a carnival in Georgia and popularized it nationwide. He renamed it “Bingo” after a player accidentally yelled “Bingo!” instead of “Beano.”

1930s-1940s: Bingo Halls
Bingo halls began to appear across the United States, offering games to the public.

1950s-1960s: Charity Bingo
Bingo became a popular fundraising tool for charities and non-profit organizations.

1970s-1980s: Casino Bingo
Bingo was introduced in casinos, offering larger prizes and a more sophisticated gaming experience.

1990s-Present: Electronic Bingo
The advent of electronic bingo machines and online bingo platforms has further transformed the game.

From its humble beginnings in Italy to its current global popularity, Bingo has evolved into a beloved game enjoyed by millions.