American Mah Jongg Through the Ages: A Trivia Journey (Article 255)

Created On04/11/2025

Last Updated On04/11/2025

Welcome to the Mahj Life trivia page—where history meets the click of a tile!

This trivia experience draws on decades of documented research. We extend special thanks to Tom Sloper of Sloperama and Katie Albert for their contributions to the historical record of Mah Jongg. Their work continues to inform and inspire the mah jongg community worldwide.

Mah jongg is more than just a game. It’s a cultural icon, a social tradition, and a living timeline of global influence. This trivia experience invites you to explore the origins, evolution, and unexpected twists in the story of mah jongg. From ancient roots to modern revivals, discover the fascinating journey that brought the game from smoky teahouses and drawing rooms to today’s leagues and livestreams.

Each question offers a glimpse into the game’s rich past—its inventors, influencers, and international travels. How much do you know about where it all began and how far it’s come?

Test your knowledge, learn a few surprises, and celebrate the timeless spirit of mah jongg.

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Created on April 11, 2025

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Mah Jongg Trivia

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1 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Development

1. In what year were septettes, sextetes, and octettes on the card?

A. Between 1945 and 1948

B. Between 1948 and 1951

C. Between 1956 and 1962

D. Between 1951 and 1955

2 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Beginnings

2. Who simplified the rules of mahjong for Americans and helped popularize the game in the 1920s?

A. Edward D. Lee

B. Albert R. Hager

C. Joseph P. Babcock

D. William G. Hopkinson

3 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Development

3. Who was responsible for keeping the official American Mah Jongg rules up to date from 1937 to 1966?

A. Dorothy Meyerson

B. Ruth Unger

C. Viola Cecil

D. Hortense Potter

4 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Beginnings

4. Who filed the 1921 mah jongg trademark and was a partner in the mah jongg Sales Company of America?

A. Charles Darwin

B. Lillian Vernon

C. Albert R. Hager

D. Thomas Edison

5 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Development

5. In which period was the flower tile used as a joker in American Mah Jongg?

A. Between 1937 and 1959

B. Between 1937 and 1950

C. Between 1937 and 1972

D. Between 1937 and 1980

6 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Beginnings

6. Which band recorded a song in 1971 with a reference to mah jongg?

A. The Beatles

B. Led Zeppelin

C. Pink Floyd

D. The Rolling Stones

7 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Development

7. Where did American mahjong become especially popular among Jewish women in the mid-20th century?

A. Beverly Hills

B. The Catskills and suburban areas

C. Las Vegas

D. The Hamptons

8 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Development

8. In which year was the jokerless bonus established?

A. 1994

B. 1990

C. 1975

D. 1985

9 / 12

Category: MJT Worldwide

9. Why was mahjong banned in China for several decades in the 20th century?

A. It was considered a waste of time and associated with corruption under Communist rule.

B. It was seen as a threat to traditional culture.

C. It was too complicated for the average player.

D. It was considered a gambling game.

10 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Development

10. In what year was the courtesy pass eliminated?

A. 1937

B. 1940

C. 1939

D. 1942

11 / 12

Category: MJT NMJL Beginnings

11. In what year was Babcock’s mah jongg patent officially granted?

A. 1923

B. 1930

C. 1920

D. 1925

12 / 12

Category: MJT Worldwide

12. Globally, how many people are estimated to play mahjong?

A. 25 million

B. 300,000

C. 1 million

D. Over 600 million

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American Mah Jongg Through the Ages: A Trivia Journey (Article 255)

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American Mah Jongg Through the Ages: A Trivia Journey (Article 255)