Keno History

Keno History

The casino game of keno is one of the foundational features of casino industry, both land-based and online.  The keno history dates back to the ancient Chinese when a ruler by the name of Cheung Leung used keno games as a way of supplementing the government’s coffers.  That sounds eerily similar to the reasons modern governments use keno games, also called lotteries, to increase their revenues.

In any event, the keno games of Emperor Leung, which took place more than three thousand years ago, set the foundation for the game of keno that is found in casinos today.  It is interesting to note that China’s most prolific project, the erection of the Great Wall, was funded in part by keno games.

Land Casino Keno History

The ancient form of the game of keno was not exported from China until the beginning of the 1900’s.  At that time, the City of San Francisco became a major draw for Chinese immigrants as well as a safe harbour for criminals and social deviates.  When the Chinese arrived on the Pacific shores of the United States, they brought with them the game of Keno. 

The game became an instant success in San Francisco.  At first, keno was played underground, as gambling and lotteries of any nature were prohibited by law.  When the Chinese changed the keno card to reflect American numeration, American players adopted the game of keno as their own.

When gambling was legalized in the State of Nevada in the 1930’s, keno became a staple of the industry.  When land casinos opened their doors around a decade later, keno games became a central focus of the casinos.  Keno history shows that keno games have flourished in Las Vegas and all over Nevada for over fifty years. 

Online Keno History

When the online casino gambling industry emerged about fifteen years ago, online keno became an instant hit with players, both young and old.  This is because keno is a simple game to play, and yet, you can win substantial amounts of money if you select the right numbers.

The game of Keno is predicated on hunches – players select a group of numbers that they feel will be randomly selected. The best part of playing online keno is that you are free to play the game wherever you can access an Internet connection, and whenever you have the desire to play the game.

One of the major advancements in online keno history is the development of the mobile casino.  You can now play online keno through your mobile phone.  You can play online keno wherever you get cell phone service.  So, pick some numbers and make some money!  You can even call your friends and tell them you’re a WINNER!