Billiards was first developed as a lawn game similar to croquet in the 15th century. Players would hit balls with a wooden stick called a "mace", turning it around to strike the ball. The head of a mace could not be used near rails because it was too bulky. Eventually, players would use chalk to increase friction.
After the Industrial Revolution, billiards began to take off as a recreational activity. The game was very popular among both men and women. It was very popular with soldiers in both World Wars. It was also very popular among all classes, including royalty. Billiards became a popular game in the early 20th century and tournaments were regularly held.
Michael Phelan, who emigrated from Ireland, is considered the father of American pool. He was instrumental in establishing rules and regulations. He also wrote the first American book about billiards. He also developed new table and cushion designs. J.M. merged eventually with him. Brunswick & Balke, and created the Brunswick-Balke-Collender company. For the next 20 years, the company was the dominant force in the billiards market. They controlled all aspects.
The first version of this table used flat vertical walls as the rails. This shape was later changed to something more recognizable by the early 1900s. It also featured a central hole to hold the cueball. It was covered with velvet fabric. This was a lighter fabric that helped protect the table.
Billiards evolved over time from a lawn-game to a more modern table that has six pockets. The main purpose of the game was to avoid knocking over the 'king'. Players could also choose to pot opponents' balls, or return them to the original spots.
In the past they were made of ivory and wood. They are now made from polyester or phenolic resin. The ball is also waterproof. They are also available in acrylic and plastic. In 1920s England, it was difficult for women to be accepted into the poolroom.
In the early 1900s, billiards began to become more popular with the lower classes. The tables and equipment were expensive. It was still predominantly played by European elites. According to the billiards industry, table sales for 2015 were their highest ever.
Billiards is a game that requires players of different skill levels. It may take you longer to play than other games. Some argue that billiards was inspired by croquet. However, this is not proven. Billiards has developed into an exciting and popular game, and has served as the basis for many more.
The game was extremely popular in the late 1800s to early 1900s, particularly among soldiers. The price of the equipment fell and standardization was introduced to the sizes of the tables. One of the first sports to host a global championship was billiards. It was popular among veterans throughout both World Wars.
Billiards lost popularity in the 1950s. Billiards were rediscovered in the early 2000s.