Billiards was first developed as a lawn game similar to croquet in the 15th century. Players used a "mace" to hit balls. The mace was a long wooden stick. 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.
Billiards became a popular recreational activity after the Industrial Revolution. It was very popular with both men and ladies. It was popular with soldiers during 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 emigrated to America from Ireland. He is often credited with being the father in American pool. He created rules and regulations for pool and wrote the first American book. He also designed new tables and cushions. Eventually, he merged with J.M. 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. The shape was made more recognisable in the early 1900s. It also contained a hole at the top for the cueball. It was covered with velvet fabric. This was a lighter fabric that helped 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 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 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 was popularized in the early 1900s by the lower classes. However, the tables and the equipment were prohibitively expensive. It was still primarily enjoyed by the elite of Europe. According to industry statistics, 2015 saw the highest table sales ever.
Billiards requires different skill levels. Billiards can take more time than other games. Some believe that croquet is the origin of billiards. However, this assertion is not supported. 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 among soldiers during the late 1800s through the early 1900s. The equipment cost was lower after the Industrial Revolution and standardization of table sizes was achieved. Billiards was the first sport to host a world championship. It was still very popular with veterans after both World Wars.
In the late 1950s, billiards began to fall out of popularity. But in the early 2000s, billiards became popular once again.