Mahjong is a tile-based game that originated in China in the 19th century, though earlier versions using cards go back even further. It’s a game of strategy, skill, memory, and luck—and over the years, it has become a cherished tradition across many parts of the world.
The original Chinese version of mahjong was often played among family and friends in social settings like tea houses, with rules that varied from region to region. As the game spread beyond China in the early 20th century, it was introduced to the West through travelers and traders. Americans became especially drawn to the game in the 1920s, and early rulebooks offered different ways to play, depending on who was teaching or what came in the box.
In 1937, the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) was created in New York to formalize what is now known as American Mahjong. This version introduced new rules, including the use of jokers, racks, and a yearly scorecard that changes the hands players aim for. American Mahjong became especially popular among Jewish American women in the mid-20th century and has remained a meaningful tradition ever since.
Today, there are many ways to play mahjong around the world—Chinese, American, Japanese, and more—each with its own unique rhythm and style. No matter the version, mahjong continues to bring people together for friendly competition, connection, and fun.
"Mahjong: A Chinese Game and the Making of Modern American Culture" is a great book to learn more