1990s – The Birth of Online Casinos 🎰
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1994: An early form of online gambling is legalized in Antigua and Barbuda. 🌍
Event Description Legalization Antigua and Barbuda becomes the first jurisdiction to license online gambling companies. -
1996: The first online casino, InterCasino, is launched. 🎉
Event Description Launch InterCasino sets the stage for the future of online gaming.
2000s – Expansion and Regulation 📈
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2006: The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) is passed in the USA. 🏛️
Event Description UIGEA The act prohibits funds transfer for online gambling, significantly impacting the industry. -
2008: The first poker sites are officially licensed in the United States. ♠️
Event Description Licensing This marks a turning point for online poker, allowing legitimate operations.
2010s – Emergence of Mobile Casinos 📱
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2012: New Jersey legalizes online gambling, paving the way for others. 🌟
Event Description Legalization New Jersey’s move signifies the beginning of regulated online gambling in more states. -
2018: The Supreme Court overturns PASPA, allowing states to regulate sports betting. ⚖️
Event Description PASPA Overturned States gain the authority to legalize sports betting, leading to a significant expansion of online gambling.
2020s – The Current Landscape 🌐
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2020: The COVID-19 pandemic increases online gambling participation dramatically. 📈
Event Description Pandemic Impact With land-based casinos closed, players turn to online platforms for entertainment. -
2023: Multiple states introduce new legislation to expand online gambling options. 📜
Event Description Legislation Growing acceptance leads to a variety of new online gambling opportunities across the U.S.