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Nick DandolosProfessional player
Date of Birth: 27.04.1883
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Content:
- The Legend of Nick the Greek: A Life of Gambling and Philanthropy
- A World of Gambling
- The Father of the World Series of Poker
- A Charitable Spirit
- The Legacy of Nick the Greek
The Legend of Nick the Greek: A Life of Gambling and Philanthropy
Early Life and EducationNick Dandolos, widely known as Nick the Greek, was born into a wealthy family on the island of Crete in 1883. After graduating from the Greek Evangelical College with a degree in philosophy, he was sent to the United States at the age of 18 with a generous allowance of $150 per week.
A World of Gambling
Settling in Chicago, Nick quickly became captivated by the thrill of gambling, particularly horse racing. His success at the tracks led him to venture into card and dice games, where he established a reputation as a fearless gambler who would often wager $100,000 at a time. Despite losing and winning colossal sums, Nick's passion for gambling never waned.
The Father of the World Series of Poker
In 1951, Nick engaged in a legendary five-month poker marathon against poker icon Johnny Moss. This epic battle eventually culminated in the creation of the World Series of Poker, one of the most prestigious poker tournaments in the world. Despite his defeat, Nick's parting words, "Mr. Moss, I have got to let you go," became an iconic phrase in poker lore.
A Charitable Spirit
Beyond his gambling prowess, Nick was a renowned philanthropist. He donated over $20 million to charitable causes throughout his lifetime, an amount that would equate to approximately $500 million today. Known for his charitable giving without seeking fame or recognition, Nick simply lived life on his own terms, enjoying both the thrill of gambling and the satisfaction of giving back.
The Legacy of Nick the Greek
Nick's strength as a gambler lay not in his winnings, but in his unwavering passion for the game. He played for the sheer thrill, viewing money as merely a necessary element of the experience. Nick's life was a testament to his chosen path, filled with both triumphs and setbacks. He passed away on Christmas Day 1966, leaving behind a legacy that included induction into the Poker Hall of Fame in 1979 and two bestselling books chronicling his extraordinary life and gambling adventures.
