05/02/2026
Yesterday when we had a pop quiz at our JAHM event Haym Salomon was one of the answers. Without him there would not be USA!
May is Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM), proclaimed in 2006 by President George W. Bush in response to resolutions passed by both the House and Senate. We are featuring prominent Jewish historical figures and modern day leaders throughout the month:
Remember the name Haym Salomon: He never wore a uniform, but without him the United States might not exist. During the Revolutionary War, funds were running dry before the decisive battle at Yorktown and General Washington’s troops were on the verge of mutiny. In desperation, he turned to Haym Salomon, a prominent Jewish banker in Philadelphia. Salomon got to work, called-in favors and raised the money needed to defeat the British and win the war.
After gaining independence, the newly established United States government was broke. Once again, Salomon stepped-up to raise money that helped keep the country going during its fragile early years.
Regrettably, Salomon was never repaid and died penniless. However, he was later honored with a commemorative coin and postage stamp.
Haym Salomon’s legacy lives on as one of the unsung heroes of the American Revolution: A true patriot whose sacrifices helped turn the dream of a free nation into reality.
