A casino is a place where people play various games of chance for money. Although many casinos add other attractions such as musical shows, lighted fountains and lavish hotels to attract customers, they would not exist without the billions of dollars in bets that are placed each year on games like slot machines, blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat and video poker.
In the 1950s, organized crime figures provided much of the initial capital for Las Vegas and Reno casino construction and expansion. However, the gangsters wanted more than just the money. They wanted to be involved in the day-to-day operations of the casino businesses, and they often acted as sole or partial owners. They also supervised gaming activities and even rigged some of the casino’s games. With federal crackdowns and the threat of losing their gambling license at the slightest hint of mob involvement, legitimate businessmen with deep pockets began buying out the mobsters’ shares of the casino companies.
Modern casino gambling is heavily regulated and monitored by government agencies and private organizations. It is also aided by the use of sophisticated technology. For example, video cameras constantly monitor the casino floor to detect any deviations from normal play; and electronic systems such as “chip tracking” allow casinos to oversee betting chips minute by minute for statistical irregularities. Moreover, casino gamblers are often rewarded with comps, such as free hotel rooms and meals, show tickets and airline tickets based on the amount they spend or how long they play.