Billiards originated as a lawn sport similar to croquet, in the 15th-century. The "mace" was a wooden stick that players used to hit the balls. They would turn it around and strike the ball. The head of a mace could not be used near rails because it was too bulky. Players would eventually use chalk to increase friction.
Billiards became popular as a recreation activity following the Industrial Revolution. The game was very popular among both men and women. It was also very popular among soldiers during the two World Wars. It was also a popular entertainment for all classes, including royalty. In the first century, billiards became an organized sport and tournaments were held frequently.
Michael Phelan, who emigrated from Ireland, is considered the father of American pool. He was instrumental in establishing rules and regulations. He also wrote the first American book about billiards. He also invented new cushion and table designs. J.M. was eventually his partner. Brunswick & Balke, and created the Brunswick-Balke-Collender company. The company dominated the billiards industry for the next two decades. They controlled all aspects.
The table's first version had vertical walls to support the rails. By the 1900s, it was redesigned to be more easily recognized. It also had a central hole for the cue ball. It was covered by velvet fabric. This was a softer fabric, which helped to protect the table.
Billiards evolved from a lawn game into a modern game with six pockets. The main purpose of the game was to avoid knocking over the 'king'. The game allowed players to choose whether to pot their opponents' balls or return them back to their original locations.
The balls were made from wood or ivory in the past. They are now made from phenolic resin or polyester. The ball is also waterproof. They can be made of plastic or acrylic. In 1920s England, it was difficult for women to be accepted into the poolroom.
Billiards was popularized in the early 1900s by the lower classes. But, the equipment and tables were too expensive. It was still predominantly played by European elites. According to statistics from the billiards industry in 2015, table sales were at their highest level ever.
Billiards requires different skill levels. Billiards can take more time than other games. Some people argue that the game of billiards originated from croquet. However, this is not proven. Billiards has become an exciting sport that is enjoyed by many people, and has been the basis for many other games.
The game was extremely popular in the late 1800s to early 1900s, particularly among soldiers. After the Industrial Revolution, the cost of the equipment was reduced, and standardization of the table sizes began. Billiards became one of the first sports to hold a world championship. It continued to be loved by veterans in both World Wars.
In the 1950s, billiards was losing popularity. Billiards were rediscovered in the early 2000s.