Miriam Adelson: The Legacy of a Philanthropist and Gaming Mogul

Miriam Adelson, the widow of the late Sheldon Adelson, is an influential figure in the world of business and philanthropy. Following the death of her husband in 2021, Miriam inherited the vast majority of their fortune and has become a powerful leader in the global casino industry. As the chairwoman of Las Vegas Sands, she now controls more than half of the gaming empire that has played a significant role in the development of the Las Vegas Strip, as well as in global markets like Singapore and Macao. Her life has been marked by her professional success, philanthropic endeavors, and involvement in U.S. politics, particularly her long-standing support for the Republican Party and former President Donald Trump.

Miriam Adelson was born in 1945 in Tel Aviv, Israel, where she spent her early years before relocating to the United States. Her family background was modest, but she would go on to become a highly accomplished individual in her own right. Initially trained as a doctor, Miriam pursued a medical career, specializing in addiction treatment. She earned her medical degree in Israel, and her work as a doctor shaped her early years. Later, she became passionate about helping those affected by drug addiction, and her focus on addiction treatment played a key role in shaping the family’s philanthropic efforts, particularly after she met her future husband, Sheldon Adelson.

Miriam met Sheldon in the 1990s, and the two quickly developed a deep personal and professional partnership. Sheldon, a self-made billionaire and founder of Las Vegas Sands, was the driving force behind one of the largest casino and resort empires in the world. Miriam, who had been involved in medicine and research, found herself drawn into the world of high-stakes business, but with a focus on ensuring that her work would have a positive impact on society. As a couple, they shared a commitment to philanthropy, particularly in the areas of medical research, addiction treatment, and Jewish causes.

Las Vegas Sands was Sheldon Adelson’s brainchild, and under his leadership, the company grew into a global powerhouse in the casino and resort industry. The company operates iconic properties such as the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, as well as casinos in Asia, including in Macao and Singapore. By 2021, Las Vegas Sands was a publicly traded company with a market value of tens of billions of dollars, and it became known not only for its lavish casinos but also for its convention centers and resorts, which set the standard for integrated resorts worldwide.

Sheldon’s death in January 2021 left a significant void in the business world, but Miriam quickly took the reins of Las Vegas Sands. She inherited the majority of the company’s shares, maintaining her family’s control over the gambling empire. In 2022, the Adelson family made a major business move when Las Vegas Sands sold its iconic properties on the Las Vegas Strip, including the Venetian Resort and the Sands Expo and Convention Center, to Apollo Global and Vici Properties for $6.25 billion. This sale marked the end of an era for Las Vegas Sands, which had once been the centerpiece of the company’s portfolio. The decision to divest these properties allowed the Adelson family to focus on their international operations, particularly in Asia, where Las Vegas Sands still operates high-profile resorts.

In late 2023, Miriam made headlines again when she purchased a majority stake in the Dallas Mavericks, the NBA team, from its current owner Mark Cuban. The deal, which was estimated to be worth billions of dollars, represented Miriam’s growing influence in American sports. As the new owner of the Dallas Mavericks, she became one of the few women in charge of a major professional sports team, further expanding her influence and public profile. This move was a clear sign that Miriam was not only interested in maintaining the family’s legacy in the casino industry but also in diversifying into other sectors, with sports being the latest addition to the Adelson portfolio.

Throughout her career and personal life, Miriam Adelson has also been a major figure in American politics. Both she and Sheldon were long known as Republican megadonors, contributing millions to political campaigns and causes that align with their conservative values. The Adelsons were staunch supporters of former President Donald Trump, both during his campaign for president and throughout his time in office. Their financial support helped shape the Republican Party’s direction, particularly through their contributions to super PACs that supported Trump’s policies and political ambitions. Miriam has continued her husband’s legacy of political involvement, maintaining her position as one of the top conservative donors in the United States.

In addition to her political contributions, Miriam is also known for her philanthropic endeavors. Over the years, the Adelsons have donated millions to various causes, particularly those related to addiction treatment, medical research, and Jewish communities. The Adelson Family Foundation, which Miriam oversees, has supported a wide range of initiatives, including funding for addiction rehabilitation centers and scholarships for medical students. Their philanthropic focus has been deeply personal for Miriam, given her medical background and the couple’s shared commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

Miriam’s leadership in the wake of Sheldon’s death has shown her capability and determination in maintaining the family’s empire. Under her guidance, Las Vegas Sands continues to grow, expanding into new markets and solidifying its position as one of the largest gaming companies in the world. She has demonstrated a strong ability to balance her business acumen with a deep commitment to philanthropy and social causes, staying true to the values that she and her late husband held dear.

Miriam’s family also plays a central role in her life. Together with Sheldon, they raised three children, and the family remains closely involved in the management of their business and charitable endeavors. The Adelsons have long been known for their tight-knit family dynamic, with a focus on ensuring that their wealth and influence are used to create positive change in the world. As the matriarch of the family, Miriam continues to guide her children, including her son, who is involved in the management of the family’s various businesses, ensuring the family legacy endures.

Miriam Adelson’s life has been a remarkable journey, shaped by her professional accomplishments, her philanthropic spirit, and her dedication to her family. From her medical career to her role as a powerful businesswoman and philanthropist, Miriam’s influence is felt in a wide range of sectors. Through her leadership, the Adelson family’s legacy continues to thrive, and her impact on American business and politics will be felt for generations to come.