Explore the fascinating history of solitaire card game, from ancient origins to modern digital fame, highlighting its evolution and global appeal.
The history of solitaire card game is as intriguing as the game itself. Known for its solitary, strategic gameplay, solitaire (also known as patience) has traveled through centuries, evolving significantly from its mysterious origins to becoming a beloved global pastime.
Long before solitaire was played with paper cards, ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia used playboards, tokens, and dice for their entertainment. The introduction of paper playing cards traces back to 12th century China and Japan. Cards traveled west through India, Persia, and the Arab world, finally reaching Europe by the 14th century.
In fact, playing cards were initially controversial in Europe. In 1367, a court in Bern, Switzerland, labeled playing cards a "prayer book of the devil," attempting an unsuccessful ban. But with improvements in printing technology, cards became widely accessible, leading to a surge in popularity and establishing card gaming hubs like Lyon in France.
The precise origin of solitaire is somewhat murky, debated among historians. Some pinpoint its birthplace in France, while others speculate it originated in Germany or Scandinavia. One captivating legend claims solitaire was first played by a French nobleman awaiting execution during the French Revolution, using the game to pass time. Whether myth or reality, solitaire soon spread from prisons to parlors.
The earliest concrete evidence of solitaire games comes from Germany in 1788, described in a gaming manual titled "The New Royal l’Hombre." Here, solitaire, or patience, was curiously portrayed as a two-player activity, where only one participant actively played.
Initially, the French word "patience" described endurance or perseverance—a fitting term for a solitary card game. The term "solitaire," borrowed from French, highlighted the game's solitary nature. By the 19th century, patience games transitioned from multiplayer betting pastimes to genuine solitary activities, becoming a personal test of skill and perseverance.
Books about solitaire started appearing in the late 19th century, with Lady Adelaide Cadogan writing the first book on the rules of solitary patience, titled "Illustrated Games of Patience." Published shortly after the Civil War, in 1870, it contained 25 solitaire rules. Later that same year, Annie B. Henshaw authored a humorously titled book, "Amusements for Invalids."
By the mid-19th century, solitaire surged in popularity across France, England, and later worldwide, partly due to unverified tales, such as the claim that Napoleon was an avid player during his exile.
The game experienced a notable boost with the advent of personal computers in the 1980s, reaching unprecedented global exposure when Microsoft included it in Windows 3.0 in 1990. Initially used to teach drag-and-drop functionalities, solitaire became a staple on billions of computers worldwide.
Solitaire games boast numerous variations, typically including elements such as:
Foundation Piles: Cards arranged by suit and rank.
Tableau: Card layout where strategic moves occur.
Stock and Wastepile: Cards drawn and discarded strategically.
Classic solitaire variants include Klondike (widely recognized as simply "Solitaire"), Spider, and FreeCell, each offering unique challenges.
Today, solitaire transcends its traditional boundaries. Modern online platforms offer multiplayer solitaire experiences, allowing players to simultaneously tackle identical setups competitively.
A popular new trend is combining solitaire gameplay with storytelling elements, making the game more engaging and captivating for players.
This innovative approach merges traditional solitaire's contemplative strategy with modern social interaction, preserving the game's legacy while introducing it to new generations.
Additionally, it’s now easier than ever to play solitaire online for free, directly in your browser, without any need to download an app.
In recognition of its cultural impact, Microsoft Windows Solitaire was inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame in 2019, acknowledging its remarkable journey from obscure roots to digital ubiquity.
Fun fact: One of the world's most played video games began in 1990 as a method for Microsoft to teach users how to use a mouse, according to Paul Jensen, former Studio Manager at Microsoft Casual Games.
The history of solitaire card game showcases its resilience, adaptability, and timeless charm. Whether enjoyed with physical cards or digitally, solitaire remains a beloved reflection of humanity’s enduring appreciation for strategic play. Today, countless individuals turn to solitaire for a calming moment, using the game to relax and refresh their minds.