Haym Salomon

Profession: Financier

Nationality:

Biography: Haym Salomon was a Polish-American businessman and financier who significantly contributed to the American cause during the Revolutionary War. His skills in finance helped fund the efforts of the Continental Army, and he played a vital role in supporting the nascent United States government.

Salomon immigrated to New York City in 1775 and soon became a supporter of the American revolutionary cause. Salomon was arrested by the British on charges of espionage but managed to escape to Philadelphia in 1778 where he settled and continued his career as a financial broker.

In Philadelphia, Salomon became the French consul's agent and took on the role of paymaster for French troops in America. His financial expertise and collaboration with Robert Morris, the Superintendent of Finance for the Continental Congress, were instrumental in funding the Continental Army. He was involved in selling French and Dutch loans and contributing funds to critical military campaigns, such as the Battle of Yorktown.

Despite Salomon's efforts to finance the war, he acquired little in the way of personal wealth. He died at the young age of 44 in 1785, leaving his family without resources due to the many unpaid loans he had extended for the war effort.

He was also a Freemason, along with George Washington and other prominent members of the war effort, as well as being active in Jewish community affairs, contributing to the congregation Mikveh Israel and advocating for religious freedom in Pennsylvania.

Born: April 7, 1740
Birthplace: Leszno, Poland
Star Sign: Aries

Died: January 6, 1785 (aged 44)
Cause of Death: Tuberculosis