Casino Games History Or How People Have Learnt To Count Cards Part4.
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Recreation Sports -> subcategory Gambling Casinos.
The History of Casino Games: From Card Counting to Blackjack Teams (Part 4)
Discovering the Pioneers of Blackjack Card Counting
The Unsung Innovator: Keith Taft
Keith Taft is a name that might not be widely recognized, yet his influence on blackjack is profound. An engineer, computer specialist, and inventor, Taft crafted his first blackjack computer in 1970, inspired by the second book by Thorp. This was before the famous Ken Uston appeared, and Taft’s creation, known as "George," became a key tool for Uston’s team.
Early Innovations in Pursuit of Blackjack Success
Imagine a time when computers were virtually non-existent, let alone miniaturized. Taft’s initial "George" used a 16-bit processor, handcrafted memory, and a programmed assembly, taking two years to develop. He cleverly concealed it in his boots, shielding it with a copper screen. Initially successful, Keith faced losses and decided to partner with professional players rather than playing independently.
With technological advancements, Taft’s creations evolved. He built a new computer using a Z80 processor inside a pocket calculator, named "David." His ingenuity caught Uston’s attention, leading to multiple devices being made for their team. Their success was short-lived, as they were eventually caught, and both the money and devices were confiscated. Interestingly, Uston’s lawyer in this case, Oscar Goodman, later became the mayor of Las Vegas.
A New Wave of Innovations and Networks
Despite setbacks, Taft continued innovating. He developed more complex and discreet devices, backed by investments, yielding profits that went unnoticed in casinos. He introduced an electronic protection system resembling today’s "electronic keys."
In 1982, Taft unveiled the "7-Up" scheme, connecting seven players with computers into a network?"a groundbreaking achievement akin to early computer networks before Microsoft's time. As technology advanced, Taft utilized satellite and radio signals, although these efforts too met with arrest and fraud accusations, later dismissed.
Once computers were declared illegal for blackjack in the USA, Taft retired from blackjack but continues to tinker in his laboratory, sparking curiosity about his projects today.
The Rise of the Blackjack Teams
The blackjack craze during the 70s and 80s, combined with public strategies for team play, led to massive blackjack teams. Among the most famous was the MIT Blackjack Team, with a groundbreaking approach?"training students as blackjack players for summer earnings. Announcements in lecture halls openly recruited players.
Initially small, the team scaled with investments from external backers. Members led a dual life: students during the week, high-rollers on weekends in Las Vegas, indulging in luxury funded by their casino winnings.
Challenges and Triumphs
Likely the most skilled team in blackjack history, they amassed around $10 million in a few years. However, increased casino vigilance identified them as MIT students, landing them on a national blacklist. Moreover, internal betrayal and theft led to a team breakdown. Despite efforts to revive, subsequent teams struggled to replicate past success.
Former team founders and managers have since pursued notable careers?"Semyon Dukach in internet company ventures and seminars, while Andy Bloch became a professional poker player.
While team play offers potential, it’s fraught with challenges. The financial risks mean that 99% of team ventures end in failure.
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