Moses Haim Montefiore

Sir Moses Montefiore (October 24, 1784-July 28, 1885) Probably the most famous British-Jew in the 19th century, Sir Moses Montefiore was a financier, stockbroker, philanthropist and also the Sheriff of London. Born in Leghorn, Italy, Montefiore grew to be 6 ft 3 at the age of 20. Montefiore was elected as the Sheriff of London in 1837 and served until 1838. Montefiore was knighted that same year by Queen Victoria and recieved a baronetcy in 1846 in addition to his services to humanitarian causes on behalf of the Jewish people.

He was president of the British Board of Deputies[?] from 1835-1874, a period of 29 years, the longest tenure ever. Sir Moses's 100th birthday was celebrated as a national event in his native Britain and by the Jewish community in Palestine.