Charles Wells (gambler)

Charles Wells (1841 – 1922), also known as "Monte Carlo Wells," was a British gambler and fraudster who is famous for reportedly "breaking the bank" at the Monte Carlo Casino in 1891. While the phrase "breaking the bank" sounds dramatic, it simply meant that he won all the available cash kept at the roulette table, necessitating a replenishment of funds from the casino's vaults.

Wells' alleged winning streak remains a subject of debate and myth. He claimed to have won over a million francs, a significant sum at the time, over several days of play. However, some accounts suggest that his winnings were exaggerated, and that his success may have been attributed more to luck and aggressive betting strategies than to any foolproof system. No credible evidence of a foolproof system was ever produced by Wells.

Prior to his gambling exploits, Wells was involved in various engineering and financial ventures, many of which were dubious or outright fraudulent. He was known for swindling investors out of large sums of money through elaborate schemes and false promises related to inventions and business opportunities.

Following his reported gambling success, Wells continued to engage in fraudulent activities. He was eventually arrested and convicted of fraud in France and served prison time. He later returned to England where he continued to be involved in questionable business dealings. He died in poverty in Paris in 1922.

The story of Charles Wells has become a popular legend, inspiring songs, books, and films. His name is synonymous with audacious gambling and the allure of seemingly impossible winnings, though the reality of his life was far more complex and marred by dishonesty.