Haym Salomon was born on April 7, 1740, in Poland and was a remarkable figure in the American Revolution, earning recognition as a financier and patriot. Of Sephardic Jewish heritage, Salomon's early education in finance in Western Europe and his linguistic talents laid the foundation for his crucial contributions to America’s struggle for independence.
In 1775, Salomon immigrated to New York City and quickly allied with the Patriot cause. He joined the Sons of Liberty, risking his life for American independence.
From 1781 to 1784, he worked closely with Robert Morris the Superintendent of Finance, raising funds to sustain the Revolutionary War effort. Salomon brokered the sale of a majority of the war aid from France and the Dutch Republic, selling bills of exchange to American merchants.
In particular, Salomon’s efforts raised money to support General George Washington and the Continental Army. Salomon secured a critical loan in 1781 that enabled Washington's troops to undertake the decisive Yorktown campaign, effectively sealing America’s independence.
Beyond financing the war, Salomon used his wealth to assist individual leaders like James Madison and James Wilson, offering loans without interest and often without repayment. His philanthropy extended to unsung heroes like Bodo Otto, a Continental Army surgeon, helping them recover from financial ruin after the war.
Salomon was also a trailblazer for religious liberty. As a co-founder of Philadelphia’s Mikveh Israel synagogue, he played a vital role in advocating for equality. In 1783, he joined efforts to remove religious test oaths from Pennsylvania’s constitution, promoting inclusivity for people of all faiths. Salomon courageously addressed antisemitic attacks, asserting his identity with pride and advocating for the full privileges of citizenship for Jewish Americans.