By the Middle Ages, gambling had become a recognized part of European culture, with card games gaining popularity across the continent. The invention of playing cards in China around the 9th century eventually spread to Europe, where they became a staple in gambling practices. These developments laid the groundwork for modern games such as poker and blackjack, which evolved from these historical foundations. The interplay between culture and gambling continued to flourish as it adapted to the changing societal norms and technological advancements.