What is the origin of eenie meeney eenie miney mo?

The rhyme "eenie meenie miney mo" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, with roots in children's counting games. Its earliest recorded use dates back to the late 19th century, though variations of similar rhymes have existed for much longer in different cultures. The phrase has often been used for decision-making or selecting individuals randomly. Over time, it has evolved, with many versions and adaptations appearing in various languages and contexts.