There were many wealthy patriots during the American Revolution who hefted the bill for the Glorious Cause, pouring vast amounts of their own wealth into the struggle for freedom. Haym Salomon was one such patriot.
Born in Leszno, Poland in 1740, Haym lived comfortably until the Polish Partition of 1770 forced him out. He traveled to London, and from there to New York, where he became a merchant broker. As the time of independence drew near, Haym joined the Sons of Liberty, and in 1776, was arrested by the British.
Thanks to his fluency in six different languages, Haym was placed on a British ship serving as translator for Hessian mercenaries. His captor's actions came back to bite them, as Haym Salomon not only used his position to secure the escape of American prisoners, but he also convinced many Hessian soldiers to switch sides.
Haym was arrested again in 1778 and sentenced to be executed for attempting to burn the British fleet, but he escaped by bribing his guard and fled to Philadelphia, where he started a business of bills of exchange.
Haym become friendly with several fellow patriots, including Robert Morris, and between 1781 and 1784, Haym Salomon personally financed George Washington some $13,000,000 dollars in today's money.
As Washington moved to attack Yorktown with the assistance of the French fleet, the Continental Congress began to run up against serious financial trouble. This resulted in low provisions for the army, who threatened to quit unless paid. Requiring $20,000 dollars, Washington wrote to his superiors, "Send for Haym Salomon." In no time at all, the general had his funds, which led to the decisive victory at Yorktown.
After the war, Salomon continued his work in finance, and became heavily involved in the Jewish synagogues of the Colonies, being of Jewish ancestry himself. Before he died in 1785, it is believed Haym was asked by Washington what he wanted as compensation for his services. His response was:
"I want nothing for myself, rather something for my people"
It was for this reason the 13 stars on the Great American Seal are arranged to mimic the Star of David.
Haym Salomon was just one of thousands of patriots who sacrificed so much of their wealth, livelihoods, and comfort to be free. Follow their example, and be a 21st century patriot by signing the petition to call a Convention of States and preserve this Republic!
