Gambling has a long history. Most stories focus on men, but women play a big role, too. Many female pioneers influenced modern betting, especially on 20Bet. Yet, history often ignores them.
The Role of Women in the Casino Industry
Women weren’t just gamblers. Some shaped the industry itself. They owned casinos, managed betting houses, and influenced game rules.
Lola Montez, a famous entertainer, invested in gambling establishments. She used her charm and intelligence to grow her business. Few know of her role in shaping early casinos.
Mayme Stocker, on the other hand, made history in Nevada. She was the first person to receive a legal gambling license in Las Vegas. Yet, her name is rarely mentioned when discussing the city’s history. These women changed the gambling industry. But they received little recognition.
Female Bookmakers and Sports Betting
Sports betting was another male-dominated space. But some women found ways in. Dorothy Paget was one of them. She was a powerful figure in horse racing. Paget owned racehorses and managed betting strategies. She was one of the biggest gamblers of her time. Her impact on horse betting remains unmatched. Yet, history often forgets her.
Another influential woman was Helen Thorne. She worked as a bookmaker in the mid-1900s. She built a successful betting business. But few people talk about her today.
Women didn’t just play games. They created opportunities for others. They helped shape betting as we know it.
The Underground World – Women Who Defied the Law
Some women took risks to be part of gambling. They operated underground betting rings. They outsmarted the system.
Etta “Boss” White was one such woman. She ran illegal gambling dens in New York. She had a sharp mind for business. She kept things running smoothly for years. The authorities tried to shut her down. But she always found a way to stay ahead.
Then there was Stephanie St. Clair. Known as “Queenie,” she controlled Harlem’s underground betting scene. She made a fortune through her gambling empire. She stood up to mobsters and corrupt officials. Despite her success, history rarely credits her influence.
Women in Modern Gambling – Still Fighting for Recognition
Today, the gambling industry is more inclusive. Women hold top positions in casinos. They work as professional poker players. They own betting businesses.
Denise Coates, the founder of Bet365, is a great example. She built one of the biggest online gambling platforms. Her work revolutionized sports betting. Yet, she rarely receives the same recognition as male entrepreneurs.
Vanessa Selbst, a world-class poker player, also changed the game. She won millions in tournaments. She proved that women can compete at the highest level. Still, male players often get more attention.
Why Were These Women Forgotten?
History favors men. Many female pioneers were written out of gambling history. Their contributions were overlooked. Their names were erased.
There are several reasons for this. Society didn’t always accept women in gambling. Male historians focused on male achievements. Many women worked behind the scenes. Their influence was hidden.
Even today, female gamblers and industry leaders struggle for credit. They achieve great things. But their stories remain in the shadows.
Bringing Their Stories to Light
It’s time to change that. These women deserve recognition. Their impact on gambling is undeniable.
Historians should include them in books. Gambling websites should tell their stories. The industry should celebrate their contributions.
The more we talk about them, the more their legacies live on. Women shaped modern betting. It’s time they got the credit they deserve.