Gambling in Alberta: A Historical Overview
Pre-20th Century: Early Beginnings
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🛶 Event 📅 Year 🔍 Description Indigenous Gambling Practices Before 1900 The First Nations communities engaged in various forms of gambling, including dice and card games, as a part of their cultural traditions.
1900-1960: Formalization of Gambling
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🎲 Event 📅 Year 🔍 Description Introduction of Betting on Horse Racing 1908 Horse racing established as a popular spectator sport, leading to informal betting among attendees. The Alberta Gaming Commission Formation 1937 Established to regulate gambling activities and to ensure fair play.
1961-1980: Legalization and Expansion
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🏛️ Event 📅 Year 🔍 Description Legalization of Lotteries 1967 The government legalized lotteries, leading to increased revenues for community projects. Opening of Casino de Montreal 1980 Although in Quebec, it influenced discussions regarding the establishment of casinos in Alberta.
1981-2000: Introduction of Casinos
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🎰 Event 📅 Year 🔍 Description First Legal Casinos Open 1991 The introduction of the West Edmonton Mall Casino marked the beginning of licensed casinos in Alberta. Expansion of Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) 1994 VLTs were introduced in bars and pubs, becoming a popular gambling option.
2001-Present: Modern Era of Gambling
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💻 Event 📅 Year 🔍 Description Online Gambling Regulations Established 2010 Alberta introduced regulations for online betting, enhancing consumer protection. Expansion of Gaming Options 2021 New gaming hubs and additional casinos were permitted, enriching the gambling landscape.
For further reading on gambling legislation in Alberta, visit the official Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis website.