Hankin was born in Ukraine and moved to Palestine with his father in 1882. The Hankins were among the founders of Rishon LeZion, now one of the largest cities in Israel. Acting on behalf of Hovevei Zion (Lovers of Zion) and other organizations, he was the most prominent purchaser of land for Jewish settlement in Palestine, including the sites of Rehovot and Hadera. He maintained relations with Arab landowners.
Photo: Central Zionist Archives