A Comprehensive Timeline of Gambling Legalization in Mississippi

Mississippi, a state in the southeastern United States, has a rich history of gambling. Over the years, the state has seen various forms of gambling legalized, from riverboat casinos to land-based casinos. This article delves into the timeline of when gambling was legalized in Mississippi and the impact it has had on the state.

1. Early Forms of Gambling in Mississippi

Gambling has been a part of Mississippi's history since the early 1800s. During this time, gambling was primarily in the form of horse racing and bingo. Horse racing was popular in the state, with the first racecourse being established in 1833. Bingo, on the other hand, was a popular form of gambling among the African American community.

2. The Riverboat Era

The riverboat era began in the late 1800s, with riverboats carrying gamblers up and down the Mississippi River. This era saw the rise of riverboat gambling, which was a significant source of revenue for the state. However, riverboat gambling was not regulated, leading to corruption and illegal activities.

3. The Prohibition Era

The Prohibition Era, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, saw the illegalization of alcohol in the United States. During this time, gambling also became illegal, as it was often associated with the production and distribution of alcohol. Despite the ban, illegal gambling continued to thrive in Mississippi.

4. The Legalization of Riverboat Casinos

In 1990, Mississippi became the first state in the United States to legalize riverboat casinos. The Mississippi Gaming Commission was established to regulate the industry, and the first riverboat casino opened in Biloxi in 1992. This move was aimed at generating revenue for the state and creating jobs.

5. The Expansion of Land-Based Casinos

Following the success of riverboat casinos, the state began to consider the expansion of land-based casinos. In 1993, the Mississippi State Legislature passed a bill that allowed for the construction of land-based casinos. The first land-based casino opened in Tunica in 1994, and soon after, other casinos followed suit.

6. The Impact of Legalized Gambling in Mississippi

The legalization of gambling in Mississippi has had a significant impact on the state. It has generated billions of dollars in revenue, created thousands of jobs, and improved infrastructure. However, it has also raised concerns about gambling addiction and its social impact.

7. The Future of Gambling in Mississippi

The future of gambling in Mississippi seems promising, with the state continuing to attract tourists and generate revenue. The state has also been exploring new forms of gambling, such as sports betting and online gambling. However, the state must also address the challenges associated with gambling, such as addiction and its social impact.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What was the first form of gambling in Mississippi?

Answer: The first form of gambling in Mississippi was horse racing, which began in 1833.

2. When did riverboat gambling become legal in Mississippi?

Answer: Riverboat gambling became legal in Mississippi in 1990.

3. How many riverboat casinos are there in Mississippi?

Answer: There are currently 11 riverboat casinos in Mississippi.

4. When did the first land-based casino open in Mississippi?

Answer: The first land-based casino in Mississippi opened in Tunica in 1994.

5. What is the impact of legalized gambling on Mississippi's economy?

Answer: Legalized gambling has generated billions of dollars in revenue for the state, created thousands of jobs, and improved infrastructure. However, it has also raised concerns about gambling addiction and its social impact.