A casino is a gambling establishment, offering games of chance and sometimes skill. Customers bet with chips that have a value printed on them, and the house always has an advantage over the players, regardless of how skilled or lucky they may be. In some games, such as poker, the casino takes a commission on each hand of play, known as the rake.
Modern casinos are equipped with various security measures and cameras to monitor activities. In addition, a physical security force patrols the floors and responds to calls for assistance or reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. A specialized surveillance department often operates the casino’s closed circuit television system, known as the eye in the sky.
The elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, Germany, first became a playground for wealthy Europeans 150 years ago. The casino there is renowned for its elaborate decor and star-studded entertainment. Its patrons include Frank Sinatra, Liberace, Dolly Parton and Elton John.
In the 1950s, mob money helped Nevada’s casinos expand and flourish, despite gambling’s seamy image. Mafia figures took sole or partial ownership of some casinos, and used the proceeds from extortion and other rackets to fund them. In this way, they were able to draw business away from other gambling operations in other states.
