Early Life
Goldwyn was born Schmuel Gelbfisz in Warsaw, Congress Poland, Russian Empire, to a Hasidic, Polish Jewish family. His parents were Aaron David Gelbfisz, a peddler, and his wife, Hannah Reban (née Jarecka). At an early age, he left Warsaw on foot and penniless. He made his way to Birmingham, England, where he remained with relatives for a few years using the name Samuel Goldfish.
In 1898, he emigrated to the United States, but fearing refusal of entry, he got off the boat in Nova Scotia, Canada, before moving on to New York in January 1899. He found work in upstate Gloversville, New York, in the bustling garment business. Soon his innate marketing skills made him a very successful salesman at the Albano Glove Company. After four years, as vice-president for sales, he moved back to New York City.
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