Several ways to ensure security at the casino are available to patrons. Whether it’s through strict rules of conduct or elaborate surveillance systems, casino personnel have their eyes peeled for anything that could make patrons feel uncomfortable. They also monitor their activities by recording video feeds for later review. One example is the way in which slot machines are designed. The computer chips within each machine determine the payout. This way, a casino can avoid the dangers of an unruly slot floor.
Before the emergence of legalized gambling, Nevada was the only state in the union to allow casino business. Nonetheless, it proved difficult for legitimate businessmen to participate in the venture. Casinos were illegal in most other states, but the mafia was eager to take advantage of the new business opportunities. The mafia’s money poured steadily into Reno and Las Vegas casinos. Eventually, even gangsters took a stake in some of these casinos.
As the concept spread throughout Europe, casino gambling became a popular pastime. The casino was initially a small clubhouse for Italian aristocrats, but gambling soon spread to public venues, especially in Venice. By the sixteenth century, gambling became the most popular form of entertainment in Europe, and aristocrats were known to throw private parties in their ridotti (private clubs).