As George Washington and his soldiers crossed the Delaware to confront the enemy, the U.S. government had fled Philadelphia. Except for Robert Morris.
The "Financier of the American Revolution," stayed behind raising money to pay bonuses and keep America's young army in the field.
When the war broke out, Morris, a wealthy Philadelphia merchant and patriot, met with Ben Franklin to plan how to beef up Pennsylvania's militia. Soon the new Continental Congress had Morris arranging to smuggle in arms and supplies to create a new American army and navy. Which is how, in the winter of 1776, he found himself the lone government representative still in Philadelphia.
Morris raised enough money to pay the soldiers, and Washington's men won a great victory. But the war went on for years. As superintendent of finance, Morris hounded the states to pay their taxes so soldiers could be armed and fed. He often used his personal credit to secure loans for the American troops. Much of his trading fleet became "privateers," attacking British ships and seizing their cargo.
At Robert Morris University, we realize our heroes sometimes need a little financial help. That's why RMU will make up the difference between our tuition and the new GI Bill allotment for any qualifying soldier, sailor, or marine who enrolls here.
Veterans study free at RMU. We think our namesake would appreciate it.
