The Rothschild Family: A Banking Dynasty

The Rothschild Family's Origin and Rise to Prominence

• The Rothschild family originated in Frankfurt with Mayer Amschel Rothschild.
• Mayer Amschel Rothschild had seven sons who established businesses in various European cities.

The Rothschild Family's Wealth

• During the 19th century, the Rothschild family had the smallest private fortune in the world.
• The Rothschild family's wealth has increased over the 20th century.

The Rothschild Family's Business Involvements

• Today, the Rothschild family is mainly involved in financial services, real estate, and nonprofit organizations.

The Rothschild Family's Name and Symbolism

• The name 'Rothschild' is derived from the German phrase 'zum rothen Schild' meaning 'at the red shield'.
• The Rothschild coat of arms contains a clenched fist with five arrows, symbolizing the five dynasties established by Mayer Rothschild's five sons.

Interesting Facts

• Mayer Amschel Rothschild was the first member of the family to achieve international prominence in 1744.
• There is an abundance of revealing and accurate books about the Rothschilds, according to Paul Johnson.
• The Rothschilds were impervious to local attacks due to changes they made which allowed them to insulate their property from violence and expropriation.

Learn about the wealthy Ashkenazi Jewish noble banking family, the Rothschilds, who rose to prominence in the Free City of Frankfurt during the Holy Roman Empire. Explore their establishment of an influential international banking business and the legacy of Mayer Amschel Rothschild.