Jacob Rothschild, a prominent British financier, philanthropist, and member of the renowned Rothschild banking family, has passed away at the age of 87.
Details of his death were shared by the Rothschild Foundation via a post on X (previously known as Twitter). The cause of his passing remains undisclosed.
A touching statement released by the charity conveyed the deep sorrow felt by The Rothschild Foundation and Waddesdon Manor in response to the loss of Lord Rothschild. He was recognized as a successful businessman, visionary entrepreneur, generous philanthropist, and influential cultural figure. His absence will be keenly felt by his family, colleagues, and a vast circle of friends.
In another confirmation, his family offered condolences in a statement received by the U.K.’s PA Media, as reported by Bloomberg and Reuters.
Family Statement and Legacy
The Rothschild family has officially announced Lord Rothschild’s passing, acknowledging his towering impact on financial and philanthropic sectors.
With an estimated fortune of £825m and an annual donation of £66m towards Jewish causes, education, and art, Lord Rothschild’s legacy extends beyond his financial prowess.
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Jacob Rothschild Biographical Information
Nathaniel Charles Jacob Rothschild, the eldest child of Victor Rothschild, 3rd Baron Rothschild, and Barbara Judith Rothschild, was born on April 29, 1936, at Merton Hall in Cambridge.
His father came from a Jewish background, while his mother embraced Orthodox Judaism after their marriage. Rothschild received his education at Eton College and later at Christ Church, Oxford, achieving a First in history under the tutelage of Hugh Trevor-Roper.
During his time at Oxford, he was part of the Bullingdon Club. His half-sister is Emma Georgina Rothschild, and his half-brother is Amschel Rothschild.
Children of the Rothschild Family
The Hon. Hannah Mary Rothschild Brookfield (Born on May 22, 1962): William Brookfield was wed in 1994, and later they divorced. They are parents to three daughters.
The Hon. Beth Matilda Rothschild Tomassini* (Born on February 27, 1964): Antonio Tomassini and her tied the knot in 1991 but got separated afterward. They have three offspring.
The Hon. Emily Magda Rothschild Freeman-Attwood* (Born on December 19, 1967): Sealed her union with Julian Freeman-Attwood on June 25, 1998, and is blessed with two daughters.
Nathaniel Philip Victor James Rothschild, 5th Baron Rothschild* (Born on July 12, 1971): His first marriage to Annabelle Neilson ended in divorce in 1997. He later married Loretta Basey in 2016.
Jacob Rothschild’s Career Overview
In 1963, Rothschild began his career at N M Rothschild & Sons, the family bank situated in London. Eventually, in 1980, he decided to step down due to a disagreement within the family.
His departure followed the transfer of the bank’s chairmanship from his father, who opted for a scientific path and relinquished control over the majority voting shares, to his distant relative Sir Evelyn Robert de Rothschild. Consequently, Rothschild sold his minority interest in the bank but retained control over Rothschild Investment Trust, now known as RIT Capital Partners plc, an investment trust listed on the London Stock Exchange.
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Post his resignation in 1980, Rothschild collaborated with Sir Mark Weinberg to establish J. Rothschild Assurance Group, now identified as St. James’s Place plc, in 1991. Additionally, in 1989, he participated in an unsuccessful attempt, alongside Sir James Goldsmith and Kerry Packer, to acquire British American Tobacco.
Jacob Rothschild took on the role of Chairman at RIT Capital Partners plc, a significant investment trust traded on the London Stock Exchange with a net asset value of approximately £2 billion. Simultaneously, he chaired J Rothschild Capital Management, a subsidiary of RIT Capital Partners plc, while maintaining various other interests in venture capital and property.
From November 2003 to his retirement in 2008, he served as Deputy Chairman of BSkyB Television, and until 2008, he held a Director position at RHJ International. Furthermore, he served on the council for the Duchy of Cornwall for the Prince of Wales and was a part of The Blackstone Group’s International Advisory Board.
In recognition of his contributions to the Duchy of Cornwall, Rothschild was honored as Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in the 2020 New Year Honours.
Tributes and Accomplishments
In a heartfelt statement, Lord Jacob Rothschild’s family remembered him as a well-rounded individual, excelling in finance, arts, public service, and philanthropy.
Acknowledged for his dedication to Jewish culture and environmental causes, Lord Rothschild will be remembered in a private Jewish ceremony with a later memorial celebration.
Professional Achievements: Jacob Rothschild
A distinguished figure in the investment world, Lord Rothschild chaired RIT Capital Partners until 2019 and held prominent positions in various organizations such as BSkyB Television and the National Gallery.
Jacob Rothschild’s commitment to managing Waddesdon Manor and estate showcased his dedication to preserving cultural heritage and enriching the arts.
Legacy and Tributes: Jacob Rothschild
The Rothschild Foundation and Waddesdon Manor expressed deep sorrow at Lord Rothschild’s passing, hailing him as a business tycoon, philanthropist, and cultural influencer.
His impact on British society through support for communities, education, and the arts solidifies his legacy, which his family vows to uphold through the foundation he passionately nurtured.
