A lottery is a system of distribution of prizes by chance, usually in exchange for payment. The prize money may consist of goods or cash. Lotteries can be either public or private, with the latter often used for charitable purposes or to fund public works projects. Examples of public lotteries include those that award kindergarten admission, allocate units in a subsidized housing project, or select a vaccine for a rapidly moving disease. Private lotteries are more common, and can involve a wide variety of activities.

The earliest known European lotteries were held during the Roman Empire, for example as entertainment at dinner parties and to finance public works such as bridges and canals. In the United States, lotteries began in colonial America, where they played a major role in raising funds for private and public ventures. Lotteries also helped to finance military expeditions against the French and Indians. They also played a crucial role in financing the development of the early American colonies, including roads, libraries, churches, colleges, canals, and even universities.

In the United States, most lotteries are operated by state governments, which have the exclusive right to operate them. The profits from these lotteries are then used to fund state programs. The popularity of these lotteries is driven primarily by super-sized jackpots, which generate substantial media coverage and increase ticket sales. While these large jackpots are a major draw, it is important to remember that winning the lottery is still a game of chance.