History of Gambling in Canada - The Gambling Timeline
Like most developed nations, gambling has a long and rich history in Canada. Even before European settlers landed in the late 1400s, there is evidence of native Indians playing games of chance for thousands of years before.
While gambling went through its periods of prohibition, today's Canadians have a wide variety of legal gambling options available to them.
A Timeline of the History of Gambling in Canada
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1497
Explorer John Cabot discovers Canada and begins to explore the vast, sprawling landscape
Along the way he finds Native populations playing games of chance. The games were not geared towards winning money, or trading items, but rather helped the person grow emotionally, spiritually, and mentally.
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Between 1497 & 1892
More settlers arrive in Canada from Europe and bring traditional casino games to the country
Card games, dice, and other variations become a form of entertainment for the settlers and their families. -
1892
Gambling has become a part of new Canadian culture and tradition, but not everyone liked it
This resulted in underground gambling dens and illegal mob like activity to operate the games for money.
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1900 - 1925
Opinions on gambling again shift for the better
Bingo, raffles, and horseracing becomes a legitimate activity for Canadians. By 1925, fairs and town exhibitions can begin to hold gambling events.
- 1970 All Canadian provinces accept the reality that Canadians have turned gambling into a pastime and recreational activity no different from sports.
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1974
The first ever lottery is announced and helps to raise money for the Montreal Olympics
Provinces began to adopt their own lotteries and horse racing terminals.
- 1974 - 1989 Gambling in Canada becomes a multimillion dollar industry and shows no signs of slowing down.
- 1989 The very first land based casino opens in Winnipeg, Canada.
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1993
The very first land based casino opens in Winnipeg, Canada.
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2000s and Beyond
Perceptions and images of gambling have changed in the last 20 years
It has shifted from an almost underground and undesirable activity to a pastime people discuss openly. As social acceptance of gambling has shifted in a positive light, the number of Canadian casinos has ballooned to over 100 by 2010. Millions of players from around the country partake in gambling activities ranging from charity events, horse racing, sportsbetting, lotteries, and of course slots and table games.