The Mysterious History of Tarot
From medieval card games to modern divination
1. The Surprising Origins of Tarot
Contrary to popular belief, Tarot cards weren't originally created for fortune-telling. The first known decks appeared in 15th-century Italy as playing cards called "Trionfi" (Triumphs).
The Visconti-Sforza deck (1440s) is one of the oldest surviving Tarot sets, commissioned by Italian nobility for entertainment.
Fun Fact:
Early Tarot had only 56 "Minor Arcana" cardsâthe 22 Major Arcana (like The Fool and The Magician) were added later as trump cards for gameplay.
2. The Egyptian Myth That Fooled Everyone
In the 18th century, French occultists popularized a false claim that Tarot originated in ancient Egypt as a "Book of Thoth"âa mystical text containing divine wisdom.
This myth was spread by figures like Antoine Court de GĂ©belin, who insisted the cards held secret knowledge from lost civilizations. Though debunked, this legend forever linked Tarot to mysticism.
3. When Tarot Became a Divination Tool
Tarot's shift from game to spiritual tool began in the late 1700s, but exploded in popularity with:
- Jean-Baptiste Alliette (aka "Etteilla"), the first professional Tarot diviner
- The Rider-Waite-Smith deck (1909), which added detailed imagery to Minor Arcana cards
- Aleister Crowley's Thoth Tarot (1940s), blending astrology and Kabbalah
By the 1960s counterculture, Tarot was firmly established as a tool for self-reflection and psychic readings.
4. Modern Tarot: Psychology, Pop Culture & Beyond
Today, Tarot is more popular than everâbut its uses have expanded:
Therapeutic Tool
Some therapists use Tarot for journaling prompts or exploring subconscious thoughts.
Pop Culture Star
Featured in shows like Stranger Things and songs by Madonna, Tarot is now a storytelling device.
From medieval parlors to TikTok readings, Tarot's 600-year journey proves its enduring magic.