How did the game of bridge evolve from its origins in whist to become a global phenomenon in the card gaming world?

Bridge, a popular card game known for its intricate play and strategic depth, has a fascinating history that traces back to an earlier game called whist, which was widely played in the 18th and 19th centuries. The game of bridge began to take shape in the late 19th century, incorporating whist's trick-taking and partnership elements while introducing its own unique bidding system. Understanding its evolution offers insights into how bridge's rule innovations and cultural shifts helped it grow beyond the aristocratic circles of Europe to become an internationally loved pastime, played in homes and competitive tournaments around the world. How did these changes contribute to bridging gaps across generations and cultures to create the bridge community we see today?