Sports gambling can be traced back to at least the 18th century in England.

[ProGambler]

While the concept of sports betting can be traced back to ancient civilizations, the modern form of sports gambling as we know it today, with organized systems and regulations, did indeed emerge in the 18th century in England.

During the 18th century, horse racing became particularly popular in England, and it was during this time that the foundations of modern sports gambling were laid. The Jockey Club, formed in 1750, was one of the first organizations to regulate horse racing and betting in England. They established rules and standards for the sport and introduced a more structured approach to wagering on horse races.

The 18th century also saw the development of bookmaking as a profession. Bookmakers began offering odds on horse races, allowing individuals to place bets on the outcome.

 

[CR7]

This soon extended to other sports, such as boxing and football, and by the 19th century, sports betting had become a popular pastime across Europe.

However, it was not until the 20th century that sports betting became fully legalized and regulated in the UK through the introduction of the Betting and Gaming Act in 1960. Today, sports gambling is a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide, with many countries having their own regulations and laws in place to govern it.

While the history of sports gambling may have had humble beginnings in the 18th century, it has since grown into a global industry that continues to evolve and innovate with the times.