Eddie Jacobson

Eddie Jacobson grew up in Kansas City, Missouri where he and Harry Truman became fast friends.They served together during World War I and built a small apparel store together.



Jacobson maintained close ties with Truman when he became President of the United States and visited him in the Oval Office several times. Troubled by the plight of Jews during WWII and the Holocaust, Jacobson passionately advocated for Jewish causes.In 1948, when the political establishment opposed recognizing Israel, he successfully persuaded Truman to meet Zionist leader Dr. Chaim Weizmann, which contributed to the U.S. recognizing Israel as an independent state.



Eddie Jacobson was not a famous or wealthy person. He was a simple businessman who introduced an old friend (President Truman) to a new friend (Dr. Weizman). This introduction changed the course of history. At Athletes For Israel, our participants are the Eddie Jacobson's of the future. Every single athletehas the ability to connect, build a relationship or affect someone in a way that can change their mindset and even change the course of history.

The AFI Eddie Jacobson program is about Responsibility, Knowledge, Communication, Connection, Building Relationships, Family, Community and more.

You are a part of the Eddie Jacobson community because you care, want to be involved, want to advocate, want to learn, and want to educate others.

Join Athletes For Israel and Be An "Eddie Jacobbson"You are a part of a new generation that is combatting antisemitism and racism and advocates for the Jewish people and Israel in sports and beyond.