Nathan Straus made his fortune at Macy’s — and spent it fighting disease in New York and Palestine...

Nathan Straus was a co-owner of Macy's and made a substantial fortune from the department store. He dedicated much of his wealth to public health initiatives, focusing on combating disease in both New York and Palestine.

Straus supported various health projects, particularly regarding tuberculosis and infant mortality, and was involved in efforts to establish public health services in Palestine during his lifetime.