Billiards originated as a lawn sport 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. The friction would be increased if players used chalk.
After the Industrial Revolution billiards started to flourish as a leisure activity. It was very popular with both men and ladies. It was also popular among soldiers during both World Wars. It was also a popular entertainment for all classes, including royalty. In the early 20th-century, billiards became popular and tournaments began to be held.
Michael Phelan, a native of Ireland, is widely considered to be the father and founder of American pool. He helped set rules and regulations and also wrote the first American book on billiards. He also developed new cushion designs and tables. J.M. was eventually his partner. Brunswick & Balke, and created the Brunswick-Balke-Collender company. The company was a dominant player in the billiards world for the next two decades. They controlled all aspects.
The table's first version had vertical walls to support the rails. By the 1900s, it was redesigned to be more easily recognized. It also had a central hole for the cue ball. It was covered with velvet fabric. This fabric was a softer one, which protected the table.
Billiards evolved from a lawn game into a modern game with six pockets. The primary purpose of the game was not to knock over the "king". Players can also choose to either return the balls to their original places or pot them against others.
In the past, they were made from ivory or wood. They are now made from polyester or phenolic resin. The ball can also be scratch-proof. These balls can also be made of acrylic or plastic. It was in the 1920s that women had trouble being accepted in the poolroom.
Billiards gained popularity among lower classes in early 1900s. However, the tables and the equipment were prohibitively expensive. It was still mostly played by the wealthy in Europe. According to statistics from the billiards industry in 2015, table sales were at their highest level 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 is a croquet game. This is not true. Billiards is a popular sport that has been enjoyed by many and has also served as the foundation for many other games.
The game was popular during the late 1800s and into the early 1900s, especially among soldiers. After the Industrial Revolution, equipment costs were reduced and tables sizes standardized. The first world championship was held in billiards. It continued to be loved by veterans in both World Wars.
Billiards fell out of favor in the 1950s. In the early 2000s, though, billiards returned to popularity.