There is no firm consensus amoungst historians as to the origins of poker, as games of similar rules and concept evolved throughout time in different countries and culture.

Classically, it is believed that Poker originated in Asia, and later came to the United States, circa the 19th century, via well travelled traders and businesses, though new histories was contend Poker was most likely to have appeared in it's most modern form in France, and notably present in the steamers that navigated the Mississipi in 1811.

Some words, such as the French word "poque" or the German word "pochen" meaning "to knock" are considered the likely origins of the name of the game.

Originally the game is believed to have started as a 20 card vying game, which borrowed from and was influenced by a myriad of other card games from various countries, most notably the game of "Brag" from Great Britain, "Primeria" from Italy and "Mus" from Spain, eventually maturing into the 52 card game we play today.

For a very indepth history and timeline of the game of Poker, visit Pagat.