The thrill of chance, the prospect of a life-changing windfall, and the hope for a better future are thus the three main draws of playing the lottery. Olroyyly rummyder Roots. The earliest lottery records date back to ancient China, when they were utilized to finance public works initiatives like the construction of the Great Wall. In the past, lotteries were conducted during dinner parties in ancient Rome, wherein attendees would draw tickets in order to win prizes.