The devil's picture-books

the long version

Although our pious Puritan forefathers are said to have bestowed the name "the devil's books" on playing cards in the hopes that the name would alarm timid persons and thereby prevent their use, a deck of cards is arguably one of the most common household items in existence today. This volume explores the history of playing cards and how they have evolved into a ubiquitous accessory of modern life, as well as a multi-billion dollar industry.