Jews Played Key Role in Winning the American Revolution, Uncovering Their Contributions to History

In a narrative largely overlooked within traditional educational frameworks, the contributions of a small Jewish community in America and the Caribbean to the Revolutionary War are poised to gain significant recognition as part of a forthcoming exhibition at the Weitzman National Jewish Museum of American History in Philadelphia. This exhibition, titled “The First Salute,” will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, scheduled to run from April 2026 through April 2027.

The focus of this exhibition will center on the actions of Jewish merchants from St. Eustatius, a small but pivotal Caribbean island, who played a crucial role in supplying the Continental Army with gunpowder and other resources essential for the American cause. These merchants were not just service providers but were also among the first to formally recognize the United States as a nation. Their support came at a heavy price, as they faced severe reprisals from British forces for their allegiance to the American fight for independence, culminating in the loss of their homes, their wealth, and in some cases, their lives.

The Weitzman museum’s initiative is not merely a retrospective of historical events; it is designed to illuminate a vital, yet often omitted, segment of American history. Museum CEO Dan Tadmor emphasized the importance of sharing this story, noting that it is integral to the broader American narrative, despite being embedded within the context of Jewish history. Tadmor remarked on the community’s embodiment of values such as religious freedom and economic opportunity, which were foundational to America’s identity.

The exhibition’s space, which will cover approximately 4,500 square feet, is a significant aspect of a million renovation aimed at transforming roughly 40% of the museum’s existing galleries. The museum plans to include not only this new exhibition on the Jewish contribution to American independence but also ongoing effort to address contemporary issues such as antisemitism.

By 1776, St. Eustatius hosted a thriving Jewish population that had established a vibrant community filled with economic activity. However, their ideological alignment with the revolutionaries made them targets for British aggression, leading to widespread persecution. The episode where the American warship Andrew Doria was the first to fire a salute for the newly independent nation marks a poignant moment in history, symbolizing international acknowledgment of the United States.

The harsh treatment faced by the Jewish community during the conflict ultimately decimated their population on the island, yet their legacy remains a testament to the intertwined fate of diverse groups in shaping America. Their courageous contributions towards establishing a nation rooted in religious liberty and personal freedom will be celebrated as an essential narrative within the country’s historical tapestry. As preparations for the upcoming exhibition continue, the Weitzman National Jewish Museum seeks to educate and inspire visitors about this oft-forgotten chapter, ensuring the sacrifices and contributions of these early Jewish Americans are not lost to history.