The word lottery is often used to refer to a scheme in which tickets are sold for the chance to win money or goods. However, there are many other forms of lotteries, and the term can also refer to any system in which prizes are allocated by chance. The use of lottery-like arrangements for allocating property or other wealth is widespread and dates back to ancient times; for example, the Bible has a passage in which people are to be given land by lot (Numbers 26:55-56) and emperors routinely gave away slaves and other valuables via lottery during Saturnalian feasts.
Lotteries are often criticized for having many problems, such as the promotion of compulsive gambling and their regressive effect on low-income groups. In addition, they are seen as an example of government at any level being dependent on the profits of an activity that it promotes and regulates.
The first modern state lottery began in New Hampshire in 1964 and has since spread to more than thirty-two states. Lotteries have been a successful way for government to raise money and, in particular, to avoid imposing direct taxes. They are also a popular activity for many people and have wide public support, especially in those states where the proceeds are earmarked for education, medical research, etc. However, they also have serious problems and pitfalls that must be carefully considered before a state adopts one. Moreover, they often become a victim of their own success; once they have attracted large numbers of participants, they must work hard to maintain this popularity, and they are susceptible to pressures from specific constituencies, such as convenience store operators and suppliers (who make heavy contributions to state political campaigns), teachers, etc.
