Overview
Donald John Trump (born June 14, 1946) is an American politician, media personality, and businessman. He served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021. In 2024, he won re-election and is set to become the 47th president in January 2025. He will be the first U.S. president since Grover Cleveland to serve non-consecutive terms.
Early Life and Education
Trump was born in Queens, New York City, to Fred Trump, a real estate developer, and Mary Anne MacLeod Trump, a Scottish immigrant. He is the fourth of five children. Trump attended Kew-Forest School before transferring to New York Military Academy at age 13. He later studied at Fordham University, then transferred to the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He graduated in 1968 with a degree in economics.
Business Career
After college, Trump joined the family business, Elizabeth Trump & Son. He later renamed it The Trump Organization. He expanded operations from residential projects in Brooklyn and Queens to large developments in Manhattan. His key projects included the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Trump Tower.
During the 1980s and 1990s, Trump grew his empire to include casinos, hotels, and golf courses. He also gained fame as the host of the reality TV show The Apprentice (2004–2015). Despite several bankruptcies, Trump remained a prominent public figure.
Entry into Politics
Trump began his political career by running for president in 2016 as a Republican. He defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton and assumed office on January 20, 2017. During his first term, he enacted tax cuts, rolled back regulations, and focused heavily on immigration. He appointed three Supreme Court justices: Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett.
Impeachments and Controversies
Trump’s presidency included two impeachment trials. The first, in 2019, charged him with abuse of power and obstruction related to Ukraine. The second, in 2021, accused him of inciting the Capitol riot on January 6. The Senate acquitted him in both cases.
The 2024 Comeback
After losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Trump stayed active in politics. He won the Republican nomination and later defeated Democrat Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. His win marked a historic return to the White House.
Key Policies and Positions
Trump’s policies center on nationalism, economic protectionism, and strict immigration control. His first term included a travel ban targeting several Muslim-majority countries, an expansion of the U.S.-Mexico border wall, and family separation policies. He also initiated a trade war with China and withdrew the U.S. from international deals on climate change and Iran’s nuclear program.
For his second term, Trump has pledged to tackle inflation, reform taxes, continue deregulation, and bolster national security.
Personal Life
Trump has been married three times. He and his first wife, Ivana Trump, had three children: Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric. After their 1992 divorce, he married Marla Maples in 1993. They had one daughter, Tiffany, before divorcing in 1999. In 2005, he married Melania Knauss, and they have one son, Barron.
Public Image and Media Use
Trump has always maintained a high media profile. He frequently used Twitter to communicate directly with the public. His social media approach earned both praise and criticism. Supporters saw it as a way to bypass media bias, while critics accused him of spreading misinformation.
Legal Issues and Controversies
Trump’s career has included multiple legal challenges. He has faced allegations of sexual misconduct, conflicts of interest, and questionable business practices. In addition to his impeachments, he has been involved in various lawsuits related to personal and professional conduct.
Legacy and Influence
Trump’s impact on American politics is profound. Supporters admire his economic policies, court appointments, and tough stance on immigration. Critics argue he has deepened national divisions and weakened democratic norms.
As he prepares for a second term, debate continues over his legacy. His influence on the Republican Party and U.S. politics will likely endure for years to come.
