Haym Salomon (1740–1785) was a Polish-born Jewish immigrant and financial broker who is celebrated as the "Financier of the American Revolution". He came from Leszno and emigrated to North America after several years in Western European countries. He is commonly referred to as the "banker of the American Revolution" and one of the founding fathers of the United States.
While he was a Polish-born Jew, he was of Sephardic descent and spoke ladino. Because of the widespread expulsions of Jews from the Iberian Peninsula centuries prior, many Sephardic families maintained their linguistic roots. As a highly educated and well-traveled merchant, Salomon spoke several languages fluently—including Ladino (Judeo-Spanish), Polish, English, German, and French. These extraordinary language skills later allowed him to work as a translator during the Revolutionary War, eventually helping to persuade Hessian mercenaries to abandon the British cause.
Arriving in New York in 1775, Salomon joined the Sons of Liberty and used his expertise to support the Patriot cause, surviving British imprisonment for his work. As a broker in Philadelphia, he worked with Robert Morris to secure crucial French and Dutch loans, directly funding the Battle of Yorktown and supporting prominent leaders like Jefferson and Madison.
Why Is Salomon Still Beloved Today in the US?
He is revered today as the unsung hero who repeatedly risked and ultimately sacrificed his massive personal fortune to keep the Continental Army and the Revolutionary government afloat. He is celebrated for his profound selflessness, having sacrificed a fortune of roughly $650,000—equating to tens of millions today—and dying penniless at 45. Beyond his financial impact, he stands as a vital symbol of Jewish, immigrant, and diverse contributions to the nation’s founding. The National Shabbat Day celebrated yesterday May 16th remembered his name again.
While Portuguese elites neither know nor want to know who Yaish ben Yahia was, the US does not forget its genuine heroes, the US does not forget its genuine heroes. Salomon's contributions and recognition are evidenced by numerous publications, articles, monuments, postage stamps featuring his image, and medals commemorating his role in the victory of the American rebels. He has been recognized on a U.S. Postal Service "Financial Hero" stamp. The Heald Square Monument features him alongside George Washington and Robert Morris. Even during WWII, the SS Haym Salomon ship was named in his honor. He is honored through many other tributes, as his legacy is kept alive as a poignant example of a key Founding Father.
