It's uncertain exactly when playing cards were invented. Some believe they came from Ancient India or China. They were first introduced into Europe from the Middle East in the 13th century. The early cards were not the same as a modern pack of cards, some having more suits and different suit such as leaves and bells. The four suit pack we know today with Hearts, Diamonds, Spades and Clubs originated in France in the late 15th century.
Cards were originally looked down upon, and St. Bernard of Siena denounced them as an 'invention of the Devil'. Many religious Christians refered to them as 'The Devil's picture book'. There was a time when the working class was forbidden to play cards except at Christmas.
Learn how to play all your favorite card games from solitaire card games like Klondike, Freecell, or Spider to trick taking card games like Hearts, Spades and Euchre.
