A casino is a gambling establishment where patrons can gamble by playing games of chance. A casino may also contain a bar and a restaurant. The term is most associated with casinos in Las Vegas and other American cities, but it can also refer to a smaller establishment on an Indian reservation or in a remote location.
The casino is a popular tourist attraction in its own right and is often linked to a number of other entertainment venues, such as hotels and shopping malls. The casino industry is regulated and overseen by government agencies, in order to ensure fair play for the patrons.
Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia. The earliest evidence comes from 2300 BC in China, when gaming blocks were found. Dice came into use in Rome around 500 AD, followed by the game of baccarat in the 1400s, and the modern-day card game blackjack shortly thereafter.
In modern times, the casino is a major employer and generates significant revenue. Security is a high priority within the casino environment, with cameras and other technological measures in place to prevent cheating or theft.
In addition to a physical security force, most casinos have a specialized surveillance department that monitors the gambling floor and surrounding area. This team works closely with the security staff to identify and report on suspicious or definite criminal activity, which is then investigated by the police. In addition to the CCTV, most casinos enforce a strict code of conduct and behavior for their employees and patrons, in order to deter crime.