Billiards originated as a lawn sport similar to croquet, in the 15th-century. A wooden stick, called a "mace", was used by players to hit balls. It was then turned around to strike the ball. The mace's head was too heavy to be used near rails. To increase friction, the players eventually used chalk.
After the Industrial Revolution, billiards was a popular leisure activity. The game was very popular among both men and women. It was popular with soldiers during both World Wars. It was also very popular among all classes, including royalty. In the first century, billiards became an organized sport and tournaments were held frequently.
Michael Phelan, a native of Ireland, is widely considered to be the father and founder of American pool. He was instrumental in establishing rules and regulations. He also wrote the first American book about billiards. He also invented new cushion and table designs. J.M. eventually merged his business with him. Brunswick & Balke, and created the Brunswick-Balke-Collender company. They dominated the billiards sector for the next twenty years. They controlled all aspects.
The original version of the table featured flat vertical walls that served as 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. It was covered in a soft fabric that protected 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 can also choose to either return the balls to their original places or pot them against others.
In the past, the balls were made of ivory or wood. They are now made from polyester or phenolic resin. The ball is also waterproof. They can be made of plastic or acrylic. In 1920s England, it was difficult for women to be accepted into the poolroom.
Billiards gained popularity among lower classes in early 1900s. However, the cost of the tables and equipment was prohibitive. It was still predominantly played by European elites. According to the billiards industry, table sales for 2015 were their highest ever.
Billiards can be a challenging game. Billiards may also be slower than other games. Some argue that billiards was inspired by croquet. However, this is not proven. Billiards has grown to be an enjoyable sport, which is also the basis of many other games.
It was very popular among soldiers in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The equipment cost was lower after the Industrial Revolution and standardization of table sizes was achieved. The first world championship was held in billiards. It was still popular among veterans of both World Wars.
Billiards started to lose popularity in the 1950s. In the 2000s, however, billiards was back in fashion.