Lotteries date back to colonial America, where the government used them to finance projects such as roads, schools, libraries, and bridges. In the 1740s, Benjamin Franklin organized a lottery to raise money for a defense project in Philadelphia. There were many small, private lotteries in the colonies. These were often used to fund local colleges, and a 1755 lottery financed the University of Pennsylvania. Lotteries were also used by many colonies to fund local militias and fortifications. In 1758, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts used a lottery to raise funds for a military expedition against Canada.

Today, most states have their own lottery websites. These websites provide basic information such as winning numbers and contact information. Some of these lotteries have also expanded their service offerings with Instant Games. These games, which are casino-like versions of scratch-off games, can be played online or on mobile apps. Whether you prefer instant games or traditional scratch-off games, you can find an online lottery in your state.

The earliest recorded lottery slips were found in ancient China, and were dated between 205 and 187 BC. They were used to fund important government projects. A game of chance was even mentioned in the Chinese Book of Songs. The ancient Chinese called it “drawing wood” or “drawing lots.”