Fools of Fortune; or, Gambling and Gamblers: Comprehending a History of the Vice in Ancient and Modern Times, and in Both Hemispheres; an Exposition of Its Alarming Prevalence and Destructive Effects; with an Unreserved and Exhaustive Disclosure of Such Frauds, Tricks and Devices as Are Practiced by 'Professional' Gamblers, 'Confidence Men' and 'Bunko Steerers'.

John Philip Quinn.

About this Item

Chicago The Ant-Gambling Association 1892 Bound, original cloth binding with illustration on frontcover, 640pp., 18x24.5cm., ills. in b/w., in good condition 'binding with traces of wear and stained, gilt lettering on cover and spine faded, interior fine). Fools of Fortune; or, Gambling and Gamblers is a comprehensive exposé and warning about the nature of gambling and those who practice it, authored by John Philip Quinn, who draws on over twenty-five years of firsthand involvement in professional gaming. The work combines social history, moral critique, and detailed descriptions of gambling practices, from ancient and modern times across both hemispheres, exposing the tricks, devices, and fraudulent practices of professional gamblers. The text is framed as both personal confession and social admonition, aimed at revealing the destructive effects and moral hazards of gambling. Fools of Fortune; or, Gambling and Gamblers presents a multifaceted narrative combining autobiography, social history, and moral critique. John Philip Quinn situates his account within a broad historical context, tracing the presence of gambling practices in ancient civilizations and their adaptation into modern societies. The author recounts his own experience with professional gambling, describing techniques, scams, and devices used by 'confidence men' and 'bunko steerers' and detailing the moral, economic, and social consequences of such practices. The book also includes contributions from contemporary voices, such as an introduction by Rev. John Snyder, and discusses the philosophical and ethical dimensions of vice and reform. Rich in anecdote and historical observation, the text functions both as a cautionary tale and as a primary source for the study of gambling culture, law enforcement responses, and the socio-legal treatment of vice in the late nineteenth century. John Philip Quinn (b. 1846) authored Fools of Fortune drawing on extensive personal experience in professional gambling. While detailed biographical data beyond the book's preface are scarce, his work demonstrates deep engagement with gambling practices and vice culture in late 19th century America. The volume includes contributions and endorsements by notable contemporaries, including Rev. John Snyder and Gov. Charles P. Johnson, suggesting the author's integration into circles concerned with moral reform and social pathology.

Seller Inventory # 19557

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Fools of Fortune; or, Gambling and Gamblers: Comprehending a History of the Vice in Ancient and Modern Times, and in Both Hemispheres; an Exposition of Its Alarming Prevalence and Destructive Effects; with an Unreserved and Exhaustive Disclosure of Such Frauds, Tricks and Devices as Are Practiced by 'Professional' Gamblers, 'Confidence Men' and 'Bunko Steerers'.
• Binding: Hardcover
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