History and Evolution

Euchre is a classic card game, and was very popular in Europe during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Its true history is quite disputed.

Many card historians have determined that it was a direct descendant of the Spanish game Triumph. There is also a kindred relationship with another card game of German origin called Juckerspiel. An early version of Euchre was also played extensively in France during the mid 1700's and was given another name – Ruff.

Then again, a reliable source noted that the French renamed the game Triomphe. Finally, another expert claimed that Euchre evolved from Ecarte, and was popularized by the Pennsylvania Dutch. Thus, there are lots of theories and plausible explanations as to the source and history of this game.

During the Napoleonic era in Europe, Euchre was modernized and introduced to America especially in New Orleans (unless you want to believe that the game was introduced in Pennsylvania!). From Louisiana, the game spread along the Mississippi River to the Northern States.

A little over one hundred years ago, Euchre was the number one card game in the United States. The game of Whist was fading and Poker was somewhat limited to the Old West and to the Riverboats.

A few decades later, Euchre was eclipsed by Bridge. The United States Playing Card Company tried to sustain Euchre with specially prepared decks of cards and creation of similar games; however, the Bridge craze could not be contained.

The Internet has revived the game, as well as the publication of some really fine books. Today, Euchre still has legions of devotees around the country - especially in the Mid-Western and Northeast states. It also has a national organization and a series of live events. The MSO Event in August of this year will feature this really great game.

For more details on Hearts, Spades, and Euchre - refer to this Site: http://www.pagat.com - it is a treasure trove of information!

- Joe Andrews