The History of Rummy Jack & Card Games The history of card games is extensive & diverse, spanning continents and centuries. The earliest playing cards were made in ancient China dubingo slots gamesring the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), which is where card games first appeared. Card games didn't start to spread to Europe until the 14th century, most likely through trade routes, although these early cards were made of paper and had a variety of designs. Many games were created after cards were brought to Europe, including the well-known Rummy game family.