Boats, betting and Bond: The incredible history of poker

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History of poker

There are few card games nor gambling activities which have evolved with quite such pace and character as poker. Its game terminology has worked its way into everyday language, its popularity transcends social class, and its game play has been adapted for the digital age.

The fact that poker has experienced such enduring popularity is not so surprising.  Its competitive quality induces a thrill just like any other gambling activity, yet unlike roulette or slot machines – the odds of winning can be increased through an understanding of mathematical strategy. Beyond that there is of course a unique element of psychology; the elusive ability to read and conceal one’s emotions.

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Quiz: How well do you know your 90s commercials?

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1990s commercials

Television shows and movies from the 1990s are getting a lot of love these days. But what about the commercials? Discovering that you still remember a 20-year-old ad word for word is not only testament to the power of advertising, but it can be a huge trip down memory lane for those of us who grew up during that time. And let’s face it, commercials in the US during the 90s were unparalleled in their cheesiness and memorability. Put your memory to the test with this quick quiz and find out how well you actually remember your 90s commercials.

 

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Image credit: Michael Rockefeller

Victorian Hairstyles: a short history, in photos

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1880s 3

In the Victorian era, a woman’s hair was often thought to be one of her most valuable assets. Styles varied quite a bit throughout the nearly 7 decades of Queen Victoria’s reign, with everything from simple middle parts to elaborate pieces made from human hair being in fashion. Accessories such as combs, pearls, hats and bonnets each had their time in the spotlight throughout the 1800s. Victorians weren’t as serious as people think they were, but they sure took their hair seriously. Scroll down and take a look at some of the different ways Victorian women wore their hair from the 1830s to the turn of the century.

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