{"id":9924,"date":"2023-10-29T02:45:15","date_gmt":"2023-10-29T01:45:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.learnancientrome.com\/?p=9924"},"modified":"2023-10-29T02:45:15","modified_gmt":"2023-10-29T01:45:15","slug":"when-was-gambling-outlawed-in-ancient-rome","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.learnancientrome.com\/when-was-gambling-outlawed-in-ancient-rome\/","title":{"rendered":"When Was Gambling Outlawed In Ancient Rome"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Gambling was outlawed in ancient Rome in the late 2nd century AD. It was banned because of its addictive nature and the potential destruction it could cause both to individuals and to society. The Roman government was aware of the emotional turmoil and financial ruin that could come from excessive gambling, and it wanted to protect its citizens. The Roman statesman Cato the Elder is credited with leading the effort to outlaw gambling in ancient Rome. Cato believed that gambling was a vice that must be eliminated in order to preserve the stability of Rome.<\/p>\n

At the same time, gambling had become increasingly popular in the Roman Empire. As it spread, it was viewed as an acceptable method of making money, as well as an opportunity to test one’s luck. Many prominent figures of the Roman Republic and Empire indulged in betting on a variety of sports and games. Gambling was often an activity that preceded banquets and parties. There were even betting houses where Roman citizens could place their wagers.<\/p>\n

However, it was not long before the Roman elite grew concerned about the dangers of gambling. They feared that the pursuit of pleasure and the promise of potential winnings had captivated the Roman people and distracted them from virtuous pursuits. As a result, the Roman Senate passed a law in the late 2nd century AD that officially outlawed gambling.<\/p>\n

Under this ban, gambling was prohibited in all its forms. This included wagering on gladiatorial games, horse racing, and a variety of board games such as dice and checkers. It also included lotteries and all kind of games of chance, such as cards. There were also punishments for anyone who defied the law, with fines and even imprisonment being used as deterrents.<\/p>\n