As one of the most popular games eve, Monopoly has its own legend. Some say that it was invented by an engineer from German town, Pennsylvania – Charles Darrow. The story tells that he designed the game by drawing a sketch of the board game on a dirty textile piece, while making plans for a wealthy life and successful business.
In 1934, he tried to present his idea to the Parker Brothers, but they rejected it by considering that there were many design mistakes and the game just being too complicated and long to play. Now the name, Parker Brothers is known to all toy lovers by their original creations or the ones with a license. But who were they? George Parker was the youngest child from the three children that the Parkers had. Though he wanted to become a journalist Parker was passionate about games and toys. As an adolescent he created his first game – "Banking",. In time, he founded a company and his brothers joined him, under the name of "Parker Brothers" and made history by creating cards games, puzzle games and board games.
But, returning to our story, disappointed, Darrow still believes in his idea and begins selling the game, though it had a lower quality design than the games produced in factories. The game began to gain popularity, and the Parker brothers saw now the opportunity they missed the first time. In 1935, they purchased the full rights of production and distribution for a confidential sum.
A thing that not many of us know is that Monopoly resembles a lot with another society-game – "The Landlord’s Game", created and owned by Elizabeth J. Maggie, from Virginia, in 1904. She created this society game based on her conception that it was necessary a single tax, and every person was supposed to pay this tax according to their personal properties and assets. So she created the game as a practical exemplification of her idea.
The game had, as Monopoly, 40 squares, 4 railroads, 2 squares with utilities, 22 spaces for rent and special squares such as Jail, Go to Jail, Luxury tax and Parking. The game gradually became successful and the rules were transmitted from one player to another, often changed, and the board game and the pieces were made by passionate players.
Even if we do not know in what measure Darrow has inspired himself in creating Monopoly, a thing is clear: the game had and still has a huge success, especially after the Toys Fair (1935), where it was first presented. It became a real phenomenon, being adapted and translated in no more than 26 languages, including Braille.
Miles Jacobs recommends the Monopoly Tycoon Site which will provide you with comprehensive information on all aspects of the game of Monopoly. To find articles, tips and free advice check out the site here: http://www.monopolytycoonsite.com
Source: www.articlecity.com
