Early life & education
Donald John Trump was born in Queens, New York City, to Fred and Mary Anne Trump. His father worked in real estate, a business that would shape his own career.
He attended the New York Military Academy and later studied at Fordham University before transferring to the University of Pennsylvania. He graduated from its Wharton School in 1968 with a degree in economics.
Business & television
Trump joined his family’s real estate business and took control in 1971. He expanded into Manhattan, developing hotels, office buildings, and residential properties. Trump Tower, which opened in 1983, became one of his best-known projects.
His business interests extended to casinos, golf courses, and licensing the Trump name. His career included both prominent developments and financial setbacks, including corporate bankruptcies involving casino and hotel businesses.
In 1987, he published The Art of the Deal, co-written with Tony Schwartz. He reached a wider television audience as the host of The Apprentice, which premiered in 2004.
Political career & presidency
Trump announced his 2016 presidential campaign in June 2015. Running as a Republican, he defeated Hillary Clinton in the Electoral College and became president on January 20, 2017.
His first administration pursued tax cuts, tighter immigration policies, and changes to trade agreements. He appointed three Supreme Court justices. His term also included the COVID-19 pandemic and two impeachments by the House of Representatives; the Senate acquitted him in both trials.
After losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Trump challenged the result with false claims of widespread election fraud. On January 6, 2021, a mob of his supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol as Congress met to certify the election.
Trump won the 2024 presidential election against Kamala Harris. He began his second, nonconsecutive term on January 20, 2025, becoming the 47th president of the United States.
Family
Trump has five children: Donald Jr., Ivanka, Eric, Tiffany, and Barron. He married Melania Knauss in 2005.