The lottery is a form of gambling in which people buy tickets for a chance to win a prize. The prizes are normally money or goods. People have been using lotteries to raise money for many things since the 15th century. The first recorded lotteries were organized in the Low Countries for purposes such as town fortifications, and to help the poor. Today, there are several ways to hold a lottery. Most states regulate the games to ensure that they are fair.
Some governments prohibit lotteries, but others endorse them as a way to raise money for state projects and programs. The lottery is often used to fund education, health care, public works and other government initiatives. In the United States, lotteries provide about 2 percent of all federal spending. In addition, they generate significant revenue for state and local projects.
Shirley Jackson’s story The Lottery is a dark and disturbing tale that shows how evil can occur in small, seemingly peaceful looking communities. It also warns us that people need to stand up for what they believe in, even if it means that they may be ostracized by their families and community. Other important themes in the story include: family, tradition and class differences.