Kelly Peterson, age 10, of Chisago City, Minn., for his question:

WHO INVENTED PLAYING CARDS?

Playing cards probably originated in the orient about a thousand years ago. The games played with cards were introduced into Europe during the 14th century. Toward the end of that century they were first printed in Germany. In these early days the four suits were called the hearts, bells, leaves and acorns. A bit later in Italy the suits became swords, batons, cups and money.

The present suits of hearts, diamonds, clubs and spades were adopted in France in the 16th century. Hearts and diamonds are red, while spades and clubs are black.

Early decks used 78 cards while the modern deck has 52 with an extra card called the joker.