Albert Anker, Fortune Teller

The Surprising Historical Significance of Fortune-Telling

The possible futures predicted by fortune-telling happen just often enough to tantalize, preying on our deepest aspirations of catching a "big break."
1776 Lottery ticket issued by Continental Congress to finance American Revolutionary War.

Jackpot: For Colonial Slaves, Playing the Lottery Was a Chance at Freedom

Complaints that the lottery is a regressive tax on the poor have been around since the beginning of the lottery in America.
Powerball Lottery Ticket

Who Buys Lottery Tickets?

Buying lottery tickets is a desperate measure when you are poor.
Close-up of triple 7's on the face of a slot machine

Who Wins When Gambling is Legal?

Is expanding the role of legal gambling in the U.S. wise?