A pack of cards is something we take for granted these days. It can bring so much enjoyment, mental stimulation and social interaction, but have you ever wondered how playing cards came about? Here’s our potted history of where it all started and a basic introduction to three of the classic card games, Canasta, Rummy, and Whist.
History of Playing Cards
It’s believed that playing cards were developed in China in about the 9th century. They possibly came about alongside the invention of Mahjong – another Chinese game. However, the earliest ever recorded pack of playing cards was found in a manuscript written by a German monk in 1377. Their popularity grew throughout the 14th and 15th centuries, when they also had connections with Tarot cards. The early designs were often stunning hand-painted masterpieces and for that reason were generally reserved for the wealthiest of society.
The cards we know today, with four suits and two colours of red and black, were developed by the French in the 15th century. As printing techniques became more widespread, cards could be mass produced and their popularity in other European countries really grew. It was the English who were responsible for making the Ace of Spades such a prominent card. It was the card which was hand stamped to prove that the manufacturers had paid their tax and was therefore deemed an important card in so many ofour classic card games. The Americans standardised and streamlined the design to what we recognise today.
If you have a deck of cards you have a world of entertainment literally in your hands!
Classic Games and How to Play
Canasta (2-6 players, best with 4 in partnerships)
Origins: Believed to have started in Uruguay in the 1940s, designed to be as engaging as Bridge but more time efficient.
Objective: Score points by forming melds (sets of 3+ cards of the same rank).
How to Play:
- Use two decks (including Jokers). Each player is dealt 11 cards (or 15 for 2 players).
- Players draw one card and discard one each turn.
- Melds must contain at least 3 cards of the same rank. Wild cards (Jokers & 2s) can be used.
- A Canasta is a meld of 7+ cards.
- First team/player to reach 5,000 points wins.
Rummy (2-6 players)
Origins: Invented in either Mexico or China. Some believe it is based on the Chinese game of Mahjong.
Objective: Form sets (three or more of the same rank) and runs (three or more consecutive cards of the same suit).
How to Play:
- Each player gets 10 cards (for 2-4 players) or 7 cards (for 5-6 players).
- Players draw from the deck or discard pile, then discard one card.
- You can lay down sets/runs on your turn.
- First player to use all their cards wins the round.
- Score by adding up opponents’ remaining card values. First to a set score wins.
Whist (4 players, in pairs)
Origins: An English trick-taking game, possiby started in the 1500s.
Objective: Win tricks to score points.
How to Play:
- Use a standard 52-card deck. Each player is dealt 13 cards.
- The first lead is by the player left of the dealer. Players must follow suit if possible.
- The highest card of the led suit wins the trick
Playing for Fun
There are plenty of opportunities to play amongst friends or at clubs and social events. If you enjoy cards games then why not try something a bit different and book our Mahjong with Classic Card Games break at TLH Leisure Resort? Play a range of classic games with like minded people whilst enjoying a leisurely break on the beautiful English Riviera.