NP: History of Poker

Wed Sep 13 17:23:27 CDT 2006

Okay, this is completely NP but I ask this of the most eclectic group of bibliophiles I know:

How did the four-suit card deck come to be?  How were the four suits decided upon?  How did the various poker hands (and their hierarchy) develop?  I'm looking for a book on the history of poker or the history of the card deck.

Can anyone recommend a book?  Contact me offlist if you prefer.  Thanks!

Tim
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