Independence Day and the Story of Haym Solomon
Approximately 1,500-2,500 Jews were living in the colonies at the time of the American Revolution, with a total population of about three million. Unlike in Britain, where one needed to take a Christian oath to become an officer, Jews could serve as officers (as high as colonel) in this fledgling new land. As a result, about 100 Jews fought alongside non-Jews in helping to secure freedom.
Haym Solomon, a Sephardic Jew born in Poland, came to New York City in 1775. In the early 1780s, alongside his personal funds, he raised $650,000 to support the Revolutionary War, including an emergency gift to General George Washington for the Yorktown campaign. This battle was the last in the Revolution.
Solomon was the most significant contributor to the construction of Congregation Mikveh Israel in Philadelphia. His public response to antisemites was, “I am a Jew; it is my own nation; I do not despair that we shall obtain every other privilege that we aspire to enjoy along with our fellow citizens.”
Sadly, debts to him were not repaid (government and private), and Haym Solomon died in poverty at the age of 44. In 1997, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission erected a historical marker in his memory which reads; Financier of the Revolution. Came to America ca. 1772. Imprisoned by the British, 1776 and 1778. Lived in Philadelphia, 1778-85; active in its Jewish community. A broker, he lent money heavily to support the war. Never repaid, he died in debt.
As we celebrate our independence, Jews, alongside all Americans, remain indebted to him.
Rabbi David Woznica
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