The Persians were said to play a poker- like game centuries ago called “As Nas”. “As Nas” used 25 cards, had betting rounds and a hierarchical structure. A bluffing game called “Pochen” was played early in the sixteenth centaury, and later there was a French version called “Poque”. These are both said to have derived from a Spanish game called “Primero”, the first confirmed version of a card game directly related to modern poker.
The French brought “Poque” with them to New Orleans in the 18th century, its popularity was spread throughout that area travelling up the Mississippi River via the river boat gambling circuit and then throughout the whole country.
Poque soon became known as poker, and the rules were modified to allow cards to be drawn to improve one’s hand. Stud poker, still very popular today, appeared about the same time.
Poker is now the most popular card game in the world, with worldwide tournaments and a World Championship, the World Series Of Poker.