While its origins remain obscure, poker is a game that involves chance and bluffing. The word poker was first used in the 17th century in France and it has since evolved into poche, the German version of primero. French settlers introduced poker to North America. During the 17th century, the game of poker reached the United States. However, it was not until the early 20th century that the game became widely known.
The game of poker begins with an ante, or buy-in bet. Usually, this bet is $1 or $5, and is decided at the table. After the ante, the dealer will deal cards to each player, one at a time. The cards are dealt face up or down, depending on the rules of the game. The hands of the players develop between rounds. At the end of the round, the player with the best hand wins the pot.
In five-card poker, the most common winning hands are a straight flush (five cards in sequential order of suit) and a flush (five cards of the same suit).