Brief Summary
This video tells the story of Donald Trump's life, from his upbringing and early business ventures to his unlikely rise to the presidency. It highlights key influences, pivotal moments, and recurring themes that shaped his character and career.
- Trump's father, Fred Trump, instilled in him a ruthless, competitive mindset.
- Early experiences with discrimination lawsuits and failed real estate deals taught him valuable lessons about fighting back and never admitting defeat.
- His successful branding and media appearances, particularly on "The Apprentice," propelled him to national celebrity.
- Financial struggles in the 1990s led to a comeback fueled by strategic business moves and a carefully crafted narrative.
- His political ambitions, nurtured by figures like Roger Stone and Steve Bannon, culminated in his unexpected presidential victory in 2016.
Fred Trump's Influence and Early Life
Donald Trump's father, Fred Trump, a self-made real estate mogul, profoundly influenced his son's life. Fred, born to German immigrants, established a successful real estate company, E Trump and Son, after making smart moves during the Depression. He instilled in Donald a relentless drive to succeed, advising him to "work hard, don't be weak, be a killer." This mentality led to Donald bullying classmates, resulting in his enrollment in a military boarding school where he thrived, developing discipline and leadership skills. He later attended Fordham University and the University of Pennsylvania's business school before joining his father's company.
Early Career and Branding
After graduating, Donald Trump joined his father's company and quickly sought to make his mark. He rebranded E Trump and Son as the Trump Organization, signaling a modern, dynamic approach. Trump actively cultivated a public image by frequenting Manhattan's elite nightclubs and associating with glamorous women. His early career was marked by a discrimination lawsuit alleging anti-black bias, which he fought aggressively with the help of lawyer Roy Cohn, learning the importance of never admitting mistakes. Trump then pursued ambitious real estate projects, including the Commodore Hotel and the West Side Rail Yards, aiming to establish himself independently of his father's legacy.
The 1980s: Rise to Prominence
The 1980s were a boom time for Donald Trump, aligning with the era's emphasis on wealth and celebrity. He built Trump Tower, solidifying his status as a major real estate developer, and expanded into casinos in Atlantic City. Trump's media presence grew, with frequent appearances on talk shows and extensive coverage in newspapers and magazines. Despite setbacks, such as failing to develop the West Side Rail Yards due to community opposition and political obstacles, Trump continued to expand his business ventures, including launching the Trump Shuttle airline. He also released "The Art of the Deal," which further boosted his public profile and hinted at his political ambitions.
Financial Troubles and Comeback
The 1990s brought significant financial challenges for Donald Trump as the US economy entered a recession. His businesses, heavily reliant on consumer spending and debt, struggled, leading to a massive debt of over $3 billion. To stay afloat, he sold assets, including his yacht, airline, and stake in the Grand Hyatt. His casinos declared bankruptcy, and he faced personal financial constraints. Simultaneously, his marriage to Ivana Trump ended amidst public scandal. Despite these setbacks, Trump orchestrated a comeback by selling the development rights to the West Side Rail Yards and taking the Trump Plaza Casino public. He then released "The Art of the Comeback," reinforcing his image as a resilient businessman.
Political Aspirations and "The Apprentice"
Following his financial recovery, Donald Trump explored a potential presidential run, advised by figures like Roger Stone. He considered running as a Reform Party candidate, influenced by Ross Perot's success as a third-party contender. However, he ultimately withdrew, fearing the label of a "loser." In the early 2000s, Trump's career took a new turn with "The Apprentice," a reality TV show that significantly boosted his fame and fortune. The show reinforced his image as a successful businessman and provided a platform for branding and licensing deals.
The Tea Party and Birtherism
As the US faced economic and political upheaval in the late 2000s, Donald Trump aligned himself with the Republican Party and connected with conservative figures like Steve Bannon. He capitalized on the Tea Party movement's anti-establishment sentiment and gained attention by questioning Barack Obama's birthplace, a strategy that boosted his popularity among certain segments of the electorate. Despite facing criticism and ridicule, Trump's political ambitions continued to grow.
The 2016 Presidential Campaign
In 2015, Donald Trump announced his candidacy for president, promising to "make America great again." His campaign focused on issues like trade, immigration, and national security, resonating with voters who felt left behind by the political establishment. Trump's proposal to build a wall on the US-Mexico border became a central theme of his campaign. Despite facing opposition from both Democrats and Republicans, Trump's unconventional style and ability to connect with voters propelled him to victory in the Republican primaries.
General Election and Victory
In the 2016 general election, Donald Trump faced Hillary Clinton, a seasoned politician with extensive experience. The campaign was marked by controversies, including the hacking of Clinton's emails and the release of the "Access Hollywood" tape. Despite these challenges, Trump's campaign gained momentum, and he ultimately won the election, defying expectations and becoming the 45th President of the United States. The video concludes by suggesting that Trump's decision to run for president was driven by a desire to prove his critics wrong and achieve ultimate success.
