Casanova's Lottery

More about the book

The narrative explores the evolution of the French Loterie from its inception in the 1750s, influenced by Giocomo Casanova, to its eventual suppression in 1836. Historian Stephen Stigler's extensive research, sparked by a rare lottery Almanac, uncovers the intricate mechanics of the lottery, including ticket sales, prize distributions, and the state's financial strategies. The book delves into the public's growing trust in financial systems and the historical context of risk, highlighting the lottery's impact on society and its adaptation during significant events like the French Revolution.