Jewish Colonization Association

philanthropic organization

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June 29, 2026

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The Jewish Colonization Association was a philanthropic organization established by Baron Maurice de Hirsch in England. Hirsch, a wealthy Jewish businessman, was known for his extensive philanthropy. He founded the association to create agricultural colonies in hospitable countries, believing that farming would help Jews become self-supporting. The association became one of the world's largest charitable trusts. Hirsch also established the Baron de Hirsch fund in the United States to help Jewish immigrants learn trades. His charitable efforts are estimated to have exceeded $100,000,000.1

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Maurice, baron de Hirsch
…established and richly endowed the Jewish Colonization Association, with headquarters in England. This fund, which became one of the largest charitable trusts in the world, was used to establish agricultural colonies in hospitable countries, for Hirsch believed that Jews would best become self-supporting by farming.
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…established and richly endowed the Jewish Colonization Association, with headquarters in England. This fund, which became one of the largest charitable trusts in the world, was used to establish agricultural colonies in hospitable countries, for Hirsch believed that Jews would best become self-supporting by farming.
Read More