Archie Karas, born Anargyros Karavourniotis on November 1, 1950, in Cephalonia, Greece, became a legendary figure in the gambling world. Known as “The Greek,” his life journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of gambling success is a captivating tale of ambition, risk, and profound loss.
#### Early Life and Path to America
Growing up in a poor family with a construction worker father, young Archie often gambled with marbles just to stave off hunger. At 15, after a conflict with his father, Karas left home and spent two years working as a seaman. His journey to the U.S. began when he arrived in Portland, Oregon, eventually making his way to Los Angeles at the age of 17.
In L.A., he worked as a waiter and discovered his talent for pool, raking in substantial winnings by betting on games. His growing reputation led him to transition to poker, a game that would alter the course of his life forever.
#### The Legend of Archie Karas
Karas’ most legendary feat occurred in the 1990s when, after losing his entire fortune, he traveled to Las Vegas with just $50 in his pocket. Borrowing $10,000 from a friend, he embarked on an unprecedented winning streak. Over the next three years, he transformed that meager $50 into a staggering $40 million, excelling at poker and Razz. This remarkable run solidified his status as a gambling icon.
During this period, his skill and fearless demeanor made him a formidable opponent at the tables. His legendary streak, known as "The Run," drew comparisons to other great Greek gamblers like Nick the Greek and John Taramas.
#### Spectacular Fall and Casino Scandals
However, as quickly as he rose, Karas fell just as hard. By 1995, he had lost the entire $40 million he had won. His gambling continued, but it wasn't without consequences. Later in his career, he faced legal troubles, including accusations of marking blackjack decks and defrauding casinos, leading to his arrest in 2013. Ultimately, his name was added to the infamous "Black Book," permanently banning him from all casinos.
Despite his downfall, the legend of Archie Karas lives on. He was never motivated solely by the pursuit of money; instead, it was the thrill of the gamble that drove him. As he famously said, “The good things you can’t buy with money. A good friend you can’t buy.”
Archie Karas passed away in October 2024 at the age of 73, leaving behind a complex legacy as one of the most famous gamblers in history.
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