Early Life and Background
Ruth McBride Jordan, born on April 1, 1921, in Poland, was originally named Ruchel Dwajra Zylska. At just two years old, she and her family immigrated to the United States in 1923, escaping the restrictive life in Eastern Europe. A Jewish rabbi’s daughter, Ruth faced a tumultuous childhood marked by her father’s tyrannical behavior, which would shape her identity and future.
Journey to America
Upon arriving in America, Ruth’s family settled in Virginia. The move marked a significant transition in their lives as they navigated cultural differences and economic challenges. Ruth’s family often moved, following her father’s various business ventures. This instability deeply affected her upbringing and formed her views on family and belonging.
Conversion to Christianity
Ruth’s upbringing in a strict Jewish household led her to resent the faith imposed by her parents. After years of struggling with her identity, she embraced Christianity during her early adulthood. This transformation was pivotal in her life, allowing her to find solace in faith while also seeking forgiveness and relief from her past traumas.
Marriage and Family
Ruth married Andrew D. McBride, an African American pastor, in 1942. The couple had eight children together before Andrew’s untimely death from cancer in 1957. After being widowed, Ruth married Hunter Jordan, with whom she had four more children, bringing the total to twelve. Despite the societal prejudices against interracial marriages, Ruth raised her children with unwavering love and dedication.
Educational Achievements
Ruth’s commitment to education extended to her children, all of whom attended college, with many pursuing graduate studies. In a remarkable turn of events, Ruth returned to school herself, earning her degree in social work from Temple University at the age of 65 in 1986. This achievement exemplified her belief in the importance of education and self-improvement.
The Memoir That Changed Lives
In 1996, Ruth’s son, James McBride, published ‘The Color of Water: A Black Man’s Tribute to His White Mother,’ a memoir exploring their family’s complex racial and cultural heritage. The book became a bestseller, resonating with readers and providing insight into Ruth’s remarkable life. Through James’s narrative, Ruth’s legacy as a loving mother and a resilient woman was immortalized.
Legacy and Impact
Ruth McBride Jordan passed away on January 9, 2010, in Ewing Township, New Jersey, at the age of 88. Her life story continues to inspire many, especially those navigating the intricacies of identity and family dynamics. Ruth’s courage to embrace her children’s identity while remaining true to herself is a testament to her strength.
Ruth McBride Jordan’s Net Worth
While specific financial details regarding Ruth McBride Jordan’s net worth are not widely documented, her influence through her son’s literary success significantly contributed to her family’s legacy. James McBride’s career as a journalist and author further elevated the family’s profile, indicating that the value of her life and teachings extends far beyond monetary worth.
Conclusion
Ruth McBride Jordan’s life is a profound story of resilience, love, and the pursuit of identity against societal odds. Her journey from a Jewish immigrant child to a dedicated mother of twelve, and ultimately the subject of a bestselling memoir, reflects her enduring spirit. Ruth’s legacy lives on through her children and the countless lives she impacted through her story.
FAQ
What was Ruth McBride Jordan’s early life like?
Ruth McBride Jordan was born in Poland in 1921 and immigrated to the United States at the age of two. Her childhood was marked by her father’s strictness and frequent family relocations.
How many children did Ruth McBride Jordan have?
Ruth McBride Jordan raised a total of twelve children, all of whom she encouraged to pursue higher education.
What are the main themes of ‘The Color of Water’?
The main themes include identity, race, family, and the transformative power of love, as explored through the lens of Ruth McBride Jordan’s life.
When did Ruth McBride Jordan pass away?
Ruth McBride Jordan passed away on January 9, 2010, at the age of 88.
What did Ruth McBride Jordan achieve later in life?
At the age of 65, Ruth earned a degree in social work from Temple University, exemplifying her belief in lifelong education.
