The game of billiards, born in Northern Europe in the 15th century, saw cues improved with leather coverings and chalk-covered tips, allowing for greater control over the ball’s spin. This innovation was introduced to America by English sailors, which is why it’s still called “English putting on the ball.” The balls were still made of ivory, and the edges were still made of wood (they were replaced by Charles Goodyear’s rubber in the 1840s).
