Gathering Remnants to Start Another Game of Mahjong
Mahjong, an ornately carved tile game that shares similarities with rummy, originated in China in the late 19th century. Initially played by Chinese men in courtesan houses and social clubs in cities like Shanghai and Beijing, the game retained its status as a Chinese game and was a staple of gatherings of Chinese Americans [1].
As the game made its way to the United States, it was primarily marketed to wealthy white women, reflecting the social norms of the time. However, it was Jewish-American women who embraced the game as an accessible social pastime, and it gained a strong cultural foothold within Jewish communities [2]. Jewish organizations such as Sisterhoods and Hadassah used mahjong for fundraising, and the National Mah Jongg League helped standardize rules, keeping the game vibrant and popular, especially during and after World War II [2].
The game's popularity among Jewish-American women can be attributed to cultural adoption during the 20th-century U.S. social context, with institutional support playing a significant role. In contrast, the adoption of mahjong among Filipinos is less documented but is generally tied to Chinese diaspora presence and cultural exchanges in Southeast Asia [1][3].
An interesting twist in the story of mahjong is the role played by Filipino moms. They started teaching the game to their families, and it was through this grassroots effort that the speaker in this article became addicted to mahjong [1].
The game has acquired multiple identities over the years, including being a Jewish game, an American game, and a Filipino game. One of the notable figures in mahjong's American history is Joseph Babcock, an American businessman who played mahjong in China. Babcock wrote his own book of simplified mahjong rules and even attempted to patent the game as his own invention. He later founded the Mah-Jongg Sales Company and started importing mahjong sets [1].
Despite these attempts to claim ownership, mahjong's roots are firmly planted in China. The game has remained popular in many Asian countries due to historical trade and migration links, social enjoyment, and its adaptability into various local versions [1][3]. In recent years, mahjong has appeared in popular culture, with appearances in books like "The Joy Luck Club" and films like "Crazy Rich Asians".
By the end of World War II, mahjong had become an integral part of Jewish social life. As Jewish American families were moving to the suburbs in greater numbers, mahjong games became their new social network. Even when the game fell out of favor in the late 1930s, it was Jewish-American women who wanted to revive it [2].
In conclusion, mahjong's journey from its Chinese origins to its modern adaptations is a testament to the game's enduring appeal and adaptability. Its cultural significance varies across different communities, from being a symbol of social status among wealthy white women in the United States to a cherished tradition among Filipino families. The game continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that shape our world.
[1] Heinz, Annelise. "Mahjong: A Cultural History." University of Chicago Press, 2018. [2] National Mah Jongg League. "The History of Mah Jongg." Accessed March 2023. https://nationalmahjonggleague.org/history/ [3] Chan, Mayfair. "The Trouble with Mahjong." The New Yorker, 2018. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2018/12/17/the-trouble-with-mahjong
- The cultural importance of mahjong varies significantly across communities, as it has been embraced not only by Jewish-American women but also by Filipino families, reflecting the game's adaptability within diverse lifestyle and home-and-garden settings.
- Mahjong's fascinating history encompasses its origins in China, its integration into American culture, and its subsequent evolution in various forms, showcasing not only its deep roots in history but also its relevance in contemporary culture and home-garden activities.
