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Judah Touro: The Merchant Prince Who Didn't Want to Be Famous

Patrick Rothfuss

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Judah Touro was a prominent American merchant and philanthropist who lived in the 19th century. He was one of the wealthiest men in the United States, and he used his fortune to support a wide range of charitable causes, including education, healthcare, and religious freedom.

Judah Touro Didn't Want to be Famous

by Audrey Ades

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	32 pages

Despite his wealth and influence, Touro shunned the limelight and preferred to live a quiet and private life. He was a devout Jew, and he believed that it was his duty to use his wealth to help others. He was also a strong supporter of the Union during the Civil War, and he donated large sums of money to the war effort.

Touro's legacy is still felt today. He is remembered as one of the most generous and compassionate men in American history. His philanthropy has helped to improve the lives of countless people, and his example continues to inspire others to give back to their communities.

Early Life and Career

Judah Touro was born in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1775. His parents were Isaac Touro, a merchant, and Reyna Touro. Touro's family was Jewish, and he was raised in the Jewish faith. He received a good education, and he began working in his father's business at a young age.

In 1798, Touro moved to New Orleans, Louisiana. New Orleans was a thriving port city, and Touro quickly established himself as a successful merchant. He was involved in a variety of businesses, including shipping, real estate, and banking. He also invested in sugar plantations and other agricultural ventures.

Touro was a shrewd businessman, and he quickly amassed a fortune. He was one of the wealthiest men in New Orleans, and he was known for his generosity and philanthropy.

Philanthropy

Touro was a devout Jew, and he believed that it was his duty to use his wealth to help others. He supported a wide range of charitable causes, including education, healthcare, and religious freedom.

In 1825, Touro donated $10,000 to the Hebrew Benevolent Society of New Orleans. This donation was used to establish the Touro Infirmary, which was the first Jewish hospital in the United States. The Touro Infirmary is still in operation today, and it is one of the leading hospitals in New Orleans.

Touro also donated large sums of money to other Jewish causes, including synagogues, schools, and orphanages. He was a strong supporter of Jewish education, and he helped to establish several Jewish schools in New Orleans.

In addition to his support for Jewish causes, Touro also donated to a variety of other charities, including hospitals, orphanages, and schools. He was a generous supporter of the Union during the Civil War, and he donated large sums of money to the war effort.

Legacy

Judah Touro died in New Orleans in 1854. He was 79 years old. He was buried in the Touro Cemetery in New Orleans, which is named after him.

There are many memorials to Touro in New Orleans, including the Touro Infirmary, the Touro Synagogue, and the Touro Cemetery. He is also remembered through the Judah Touro Award, which is given annually to a New Orleans resident who has made significant contributions to the community.

Judah Touro was a remarkable man. He was a successful merchant, a generous philanthropist, and a devout Jew. He lived a quiet and private life, but his legacy continues to inspire others to give back to their communities.

Touro's story is a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference in the world. We may not all be able to give as much as Touro did, but we can all give something. Every little bit helps.

Judah Touro Didn't Want to be Famous

by Audrey Ades

4.7 out of 5