The incredible story of Julius Rosenwald, who never finished high
school, but rose to become the President of Sears. Influenced by
the writings of the educator Booker T. Washington, this Jewish
philanthropist joined forces with African American communities
during the Jim Crow South to build over 5,300 schools during the
early part of the 20th century. Inspired by the Jewish ideals of
tzedakah (charity) and tikkunolam (repairing the world) and a deep
concern over racial inequality in America, Rosenwald used his
wealth to become one of America's most effective philanthropists.
Because of his modesty, Rosenwald's philanthropy and social
activism are not well known today. He gave away $62 million in his
lifetime.​