Gambling has existed for almost as long as humans, but did you know the first casino, the Casino De Venezia, opened in 1638? Although gambling was prevalent throughout history, it grew tremendously in the 1940s and 50s as it moved away from organised crime and became a legitimate business. Casinos were places for people to dress up and flaunt their wealth, but most modern casinos are more relaxed places to socialise and enjoy oneself.