Donald J. Trump, born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York, was the 45th President of the United States. He served a single term from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021. Before his presidency, he embarked on a remarkable journey, transitioning from a successful businessman and television personality to a political figure, despite lacking public office experience. This transition, marked by its challenges and successes, is a fascinating aspect of his life and career.

Early life and career

Trump was to Fred and Mary Trump. He grew up in a wealthy and influential family, with his father being a successful real estate developer. Trump attended the Kew-Forest School before transferring to the New York Military Academy, a move intended to discipline his energetic and assertive nature. He then studied at Fordham University for two years before transferring to the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated in 1968 with a degree in economics.

His business career began with his involvement in his family's real estate business, which he eventually took over and renamed The Trump Organization. He developed and managed numerous real estate projects, including hotels, casinos, and golf courses. Trump also gained fame as a television personality, particularly as the host of the reality TV show "The Apprentice," which aired from 2004 to 2015.

2016 U.S. Presidential Election

In June 2015, Trump announced his candidacy for President as a Republican, running on a platform that emphasized immigration reform, deregulation, tax cuts, and a promise to "Make America Great Again." Trump defeated several established political figures, such as Jeb Bush, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and John Kasich, to win the Republican presidential nomination. Trump's blunt rhetoric, populist messaging, and outsider status resonated with a significant portion of the Republican base, leading to primary victories that confounded political analysts. His campaign focused on issues like immigration, trade, and a general rejection of the political establishment. His rise signaled a shift towards a more populist and nationalist platform within the Republican Party, setting the stage for his general election campaign against Hillary Clinton. Despite initial skepticism, Trump defeated Clinton in the 2016 election by an electoral vote of 304 to Clinton's 227.

Presidency

Trump's presidency was marked by a distinct focus on nationalism, an 'America First' approach to foreign policy, and a prioritization of American interests and sovereignty over global cooperation. These policies significantly reshaped the United States' international relationships and agreements. Notable domestic policies included the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, aimed at reducing corporate and individual tax rates, and criminal justice reform through the First Step Act. His administration also took a firm stance on immigration, including efforts to build a border wall between the U.S. and Mexico. These policies, whether controversial or not, left a lasting impact on the nation.

Internationally, Trump sought to renegotiate trade deals, withdrawing the U.S. from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and renegotiating NAFTA as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). His foreign policy also included a contentious relationship with traditional allies and an unconventional approach to diplomacy with adversaries, including China, Iran, and North Korea. Trump's tenure also included two impeachment trials—the first in 2019 over allegations of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, and the second in 2021 following the January 6 Capitol riot. Both trials resulted in an acquittal by the U.S. Senate.

2020 U.S. Presidential Election and Post-Presidency

Trump's influence did not wane after his 2020 presidential reelection bid. Despite the outcome, he continued to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, maintaining a strong base of supporters. His active role in endorsing and campaigning for Republican candidates, particularly evident in the 2022 midterm elections, underscores his ongoing political relevance. In 2022, Trump made a significant announcement, revealing his plans to run for President again in 2024, a move that further solidified his position in the political landscape.