The game traces its roots to the 17th century, inspired by the mathematical experiments of French physicist Blaise Pascal. The modern version emerged in 18th-century France, where it featured a wheel with numbered pockets and a ball to determine the outcome. By the 19th century, roulette had spread across Europe and America, evolving into two primary formats: European (with a single zero) and American (with a double zero). The additional pocket in American roulette increases the house edge, making European roulette more favorable to players.