The history of lotteries

The origin of lotteries can be traced far back in history. In the Old Testament, Moses had to take a census of the people of Israel and divide the land by using lotteries. Roman emperors used lotteries to hand out property and slaves.

When British colonists brought lotteries to the United States, the people reacted negatively, particularly among the Christians. As a result, ten states banned them between 1844 and 1859.