The Thrills & Skills of Poker

It is not known for sure when exactly poker came about. There are indications that the modern version was heavily influenced by similar type games such as as nas, primero, brelan and brag. The name “poker” is thought to be derived from the French word “poque” and French settlers of New Orleans were believed to have picked up the game of as nas from Persian sailors.

Poker is a truly democratic game that can be enjoyed by all. It has, in fact, been played by writers, artists, musicians and even world leaders. Mark Twain once quipped, “There are few things that are so unpardonably neglected in our country as poker... Why, I have known clergymen, good men, kind-hearted, liberal, sincere, and all that, who did not know the meaning of a ‘flush’. It is enough to make one ashamed of one’s species.”

Another historically famous poker player was none other than President Harry S. Truman of the United States. In the art of politics and diplomacy, there are many similarities to poker. You hold on to your position, you don’t ever let anyone know what you are thinking and those who dare, win.