The game began in the eighteenth century and is believed to have been formed after several other games. It is indeed of french origin. They had a board game at the time called roulette.
The current form of the game came about in seventeen ninety seven and is still popular today. It may also have some English and Itialian influences. However they put it together it is a fun game to play.
I myself don't really get all of the rules but I do like playing anyway. It is a true game of chance and you never really know where that little ball is going to land.