Donald John Trump, born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York City, to wealthy real estate developer Frederick Christ Trump and Scottish immigrant Mary Anne MacLeod, grew up in privilege. As the fourth of five children, Trump was immersed in a competitive environment from a young age. His father’s success in real estate significantly shaped Trump’s ambitions. At age 13, Trump was sent to the New York Military Academy to focus his energy and academics.
Trump attended Fordham University before transferring to the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a degree in economics in 1968. After joining his father’s real estate business, he took control in 1971 and renamed it The Trump Organization. Trump’s early ventures included transforming dilapidated Manhattan buildings into luxurious high-rises, such as the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Trump Tower. Despite financial difficulties, including multiple bankruptcies, his branding prowess and public relations skills helped him rebound.
Trump’s personal life has been highly publicized. He first married Czech model Ivana Zelnickova in 1977, with whom he had three children: Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric. Their marriage ended in 1992. In 1993, Trump married actress Marla Maples, with whom he had a daughter, Tiffany. This marriage also ended in divorce in 1999. Trump’s third marriage to Slovenian model Melania Knauss in 2005 produced a son, Barron. Melania became the First Lady during Trump’s presidency.
As of May 2024, Forbes estimates Trump’s net worth at $7.5 billion. This includes his real estate holdings, clubs, resorts, and the social media platform Truth Social. Trump’s fortune has fluctuated over the years, notably falling off the Forbes 400 list from 1990 to 1995 before regaining prominence.
Trump’s political journey began in earnest with his 2015 presidential campaign. Despite skepticism, he emerged as a leading Republican contender and won the 2016 presidential election against Hillary Clinton, defying predictions. His presidency (2017-2021) was marked by controversy, including his combative relationship with the press, tax reforms, deregulation, and a reshaped judiciary with three new Supreme Court Justices.
Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic drew heavy criticism, with accusations of downplaying the virus and mismanaging the response. His administration’s immigration policies, trade relations, and withdrawal from international agreements further polarized the nation. In December 2019, Trump was impeached by the House of Representatives on charges of abuse of power, though he was acquitted by the Senate. He faced a second impeachment in January 2021 for incitement of insurrection, becoming the first US President to be impeached twice.
Even after his presidency, Trump remains a dominant figure in American politics. His unconventional style and divisive policies continue to influence the political landscape, ensuring his place in the annals of US history as a figure of both significant impact and enduring controversy.
