Blackjack, also known as Twenty-One, has a rich and complex history that spans over 400 years. The game originated in France in the 17th century, where it was known as "Vingt-et-Un" (Twenty-One), and was played by the French nobility. Over time, the game spread to other parts of Europe, including Spain, Italy, and England, where it became known as "Vingt-Un" or "Twenty-One". In the United States, the game gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in casinos and card rooms. The modern version of Blackjack, with its standard rules and strategy, emerged in the mid-20th century. Since then, the game has undergone several changes, including the introduction of new rules and variations, such as surrender and double down, as well as the development of advanced strategies and card counting techniques.