When and why was the double zero added to the American roulette wheel?
When and why was the double zero added to the American roulette wheel?
The double zero was added to the American roulette wheel in the mid-19th century. The exact year is not clear, but it is believed to have been added around the 1860s. The reason for its addition was to increase the house edge, making the game more profitable for the casino.
At the time, gambling was not regulated in the United States, and casinos were free to set their own rules and payouts. To increase profits, some casinos began adding an extra slot to the wheel, a double zero, in addition to the standard single zero. This increased the number of possible outcomes, making it more difficult for players to win, and giving the casino a higher edge.
