A Short History of US State Lotteries

Key takeaways

The modern era of US state lotteries began in 1964.
Most states now run a lottery; a handful do not.
Daily number games became a staple over time.

The modern beginning

The modern era of state-run lotteries in the United States began in 1964, when New Hampshire launched its lottery. Other northeastern states followed within a few years.

Spreading across the country

Through the 1970s and 1980s, more states started their own lotteries. Today, most states run one, along with Washington, D.C. A small number of states still do not.

The rise of daily games

Daily numbers games, such as the Pick 3 and Pick 4 style draws found in many states, became popular because they're simple and draw often. Pick-5 games added a middle ground between digit games and big jackpots.

Sharing jackpots

Later, states teamed up to run multi-state games, pooling sales to create very large jackpots.

Where the money goes

States direct lottery proceeds to different causes, commonly education and other public programs. Each state lottery publishes its own reports.

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General information for US readers, not legal or financial advice. Lottery draws are random.