During the 15th century, billiards began as a lawn game like croquet. A wooden stick, called a "mace", was used by players to hit balls. It was then turned around to strike the ball. Unfortunately, the head of the "mace" was not designed to be used close to rails. Players would eventually use chalk to increase friction.
Billiards became a popular recreational activity after the Industrial Revolution. Both men and females loved this game. It was also popular among soldiers during World Wars II. It was also enjoyed by all classes, even royalty. In the early twentieth century, billiards became a sport, and tournaments were held regularly.
Michael Phelan is the father of American pool. He emigrated from Ireland. He set the rules and regulations. Also, he wrote the first American book regarding billiards. He also created new cushion and table designs. J.M. merged eventually 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 was changed to a more recognizable shape by the early 1900s. It also featured a central hole to hold the cueball. It was covered by velvet fabric. This was a softer fabric, which helped to protect the table.
The game of billiards also evolved from a lawn game to a more modern table with six pockets. The main purpose of the game was to avoid knocking over the 'king'. Players had the option to return their balls to the original spot or to pot others' balls.
In the past, these balls were made out of ivory or wood. They are now made with phenolic or polyester. The ball is also scratchproof. 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 was popularized in the early 1900s by the lower classes. However, the cost of the tables and equipment was prohibitive. It was still predominantly played by European elites. The 2015 table sales were the highest ever recorded by the billiards business.
Billiards is a game that requires varying skill levels. Billiards can take more time than other games. Some argue that billiards was inspired by croquet. This is not true. Billiards has evolved into an exciting game that many people enjoy and is the basis for many others.
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. One of the first sports to host a global championship was billiards. It continued to be loved by veterans in both World Wars.
Billiards fell out of favor in the 1950s. However, billiards regained their popularity in the 2000s.