It was considered a sophisticated and intellectual game, often played in upper-class households and high society gatherings. Hoyle’s book not only standardized the rules, but also introduced a scoring system.īy the 19th century, Whist had spread to other parts of Europe and North America.

The rules of the game were first officially recorded in 1742 in Edmond Hoyle’s “A Short Treatise on the Game of Whist”. Over the 17th and 18th centuries, Whist continued to gain popularity in England, becoming a regular pastime in coffee houses and private clubs. Over the years, the game evolved and became more organized and strategic, hence the current name Whist, derived from the Old English word ‘wist’, meaning quiet or silent, reflecting the concentration required in the game. The origins of the game can be traced back to the late Tudor period of English history, where it was initially known as “ Trump”. It’s a game that requires a standard 52-card deck and can be played by four players in two partnerships. I remember my grandfather teaching me the game on a rainy afternoon, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he explained the rules and let me win the first couple of games. Originating in England in the 17th century, it quickly gained popularity and spread across the globe. Whist is a classic card game that has been enjoyed by many for centuries.

Knockout whist card game