Dictionary.net

(1750-1831), was born in France, but came to Philadelphia about 1776. He amassed an immense fortune by commercial enterprises and speculation during financial crises. During the War of 1812 he greatly aided the Government by a loan of $5,000,000. He was rigidly frugal and inhospitable in private life, but very generous in public affairs, giving large sums for public and charitable purposes. He founded Girard College for orphans at Philadelphia.