Haym Salomon, Son of Liberty

Haym Salomon, Son of Liberty follows the true story of a Polish-Jewish immigrant who became one of the American Revolution's most important financial supporters. Set against the backdrop of colonial Philadelphia, the narrative traces Salomon's journey from his arrival in America to his role in funding the Continental Army. Fast's novel reconstructs the complex web of Revolutionary-era politics and economics through Salomon's experiences as a broker and patriot. The story encompasses both Salomon's professional dealings with the Continental Congress and his personal life as a member of Philadelphia's Jewish community in the 1770s and 1780s. This historical account brings focus to a lesser-known hero of American independence, illuminating the crucial role of financial strategies in winning the Revolutionary War. Through Salomon's story, readers gain insight into the economic challenges faced by the fledgling nation and the contributions of religious minorities to America's founding. The novel explores themes of religious freedom, patriotism, and the true meaning of American identity. Fast's work stands as a testament to the diverse group of individuals who helped establish the United States, challenging traditional narratives about the founding period.

Readers appreciate the book for bringing attention to Haym Salomon's contributions during the American Revolution - a historical figure often overlooked in mainstream accounts. Many note it serves as a good introduction for middle-school students learning about Jewish American history. Parents and educators mention the book's straightforward writing style makes the history accessible for young readers, though some consider the prose too basic for adult audiences. Multiple reviews critique the lack of historical documentation and note that parts appear fictionalized without clear distinction between fact and dramatic license. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (48 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (12 ratings) Sample review quotes: "Important piece of Jewish American history but reads more like historical fiction" - Goodreads reviewer "Perfect for teaching 7th-8th graders about Jewish patriots" - Teacher on Amazon "Needed more citations and primary sources" - Library reviewer

Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes Chronicles a young silversmith's apprentice's involvement in the American Revolution, depicting the economic and social fabric of Colonial Boston similar to Fast's portrayal of Revolutionary Philadelphia.

The Book of Daniel by E. L. Doctorow Examines the Jewish American experience through a political lens, weaving historical events with personal narrative in the tradition of Fast's biographical approach.

Rise to Rebellion by Jeff Shaara Details the financial and political maneuvering behind the American Revolution through multiple perspectives, complementing Fast's focus on the economic aspects of independence.

The Plot Against America by Philip Roth Explores Jewish American identity and patriotism during a crucial period in American history, resonating with Fast's themes of religious minorities in times of national crisis.

Nathan Hale by Jean Fritz Reconstructs the life of a lesser-known Revolutionary War figure through careful historical research, matching Fast's approach to illuminating overlooked patriots.

🔷 Haym Salomon raised today's equivalent of $200 million to help finance the American Revolution, yet he died in poverty in 1785 at age 44. 🔷 Author Howard Fast wrote this book while imprisoned in 1941 for refusing to provide Congress with lists of buyers of his books during the McCarthy era. 🔷 A 1975 U.S. postal stamp honored Salomon as a "Financial Hero of the American Revolution" - one of very few Jewish Americans featured on U.S. postage. 🔷 Despite being tortured by the British after his arrest for espionage in 1776, Salomon never revealed information about the Revolutionary cause, eventually escaping to Philadelphia. 🔷 Robert Morris, known as the "Financier of the Revolution," relied heavily on Salomon's expertise in foreign exchange and ability to broker loans from European banks.