Jacob Leisler

Jacob Leisler began his career as a soldier in the Dutch West india Company to become the third wealthiest entrepreneur in the 17th century New York.

Born in Frankfurt-am-Main, Leslie was educated at military school and sailed to New Netherland (New York) as a soldier in the service of the Dutch West India Company. Soon after his arrival in 1660, he left his former profession and made a fortune as fur and tobacco merchant. In the tax records from 1676 he is mentioned as the third wealthiest man in New York City.

In 1664 the colony came under the control of England. When the English king James II was overthrown, Leisler took the opportunity to revolt against Francis Nicholson, Lieutenant Governor in New York and assumed his post and seized control of the colony. His governorship lasted for more than 18 months until he was captured and hanged in New York City for treason.