America 250: A Gift to Millions

Julius Rosenwald expanded educational opportunities for millions and left a lasting impact on American society.

Julius Rosenwald was born in Springfield, Illinois, on August 12, 1862. As president of Sears, Roebuck and Company, his business success brought him great wealth. Rosenwald became one of America’s most influential early philanthropists. Working with educator Booker T. Washington, he helped fund the construction of more than 5,000 schools, known as Rosenwald Schools, for African American children across the segregated South. Over his lifetime, he contributed more than $60 million – roughly equivalent to about $1 billion today – through personal and foundation giving. His work expanded educational opportunities for millions and left a lasting impact on American society.