Lottery is a game where a prize is awarded to the winner based on random selection of numbers. In modern lottery games, a prize is typically money but can also be merchandise, goods, or services. Lottery is widely popular in many countries and is an important source of revenue for public projects. In the United States, the first lotteries were used to finance the establishment of the colonies and for other public works, including paving streets, building wharves, and building churches. George Washington sponsored a lottery in 1768 to fund road construction across the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Making decisions and determining fates by casting lots has a long history in human society, with several instances recorded in the Bible. In ancient Rome, Emperors Augustus and Nero used lotteries for the distribution of land, slaves, and property. Lotteries are a form of gambling and are governed by state laws.

In the story, Mr. Summers, a man who represents authority in the short story, brings out a black wooden box. He stirs up the papers and then reveals that people can win a prize by drawing a number. The lottery has been a regular practice in the village for years, and everyone seems to be happy with it.

The events that follow reveal the hypocrisy and evil nature of ordinary villagers. The people greeted each other and exchanged bits of gossip while “handling one another without a flinch of sympathy.” In this way, the author suggests that humans are deceitful in their nature.