Business career of Donald Trump
Early Career
Donald Trump began his business career working for his father, Fred Trump's, real estate development company, E. Trump & Son. He worked there while attending the Wharton School, from which he graduated in 1968 with a degree in economics.
Manhattan Developments
In the 1970s, Trump obtained the rights to develop the Commodore Hotel near Grand Central Station under a complex profit-sharing agreement with the city. Renamed the Grand Hyatt New York, it was the first of many high-profile real estate projects in Manhattan that would make the Trump name synonymous with opulent living across the United States.
Atlantic City Ventures
In the 1980s, Trump moved into the casino business, opening Trump Plaza and the Trump Castle in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Despite initial success, his casino ventures faced significant financial difficulties by the end of the decade.
Bankruptcies and Financial Struggles
Trump's businesses declared bankruptcy six times between 1991 and 2009 due to over-leveraged hotel and casino businesses in Atlantic City. These bankruptcies significantly impacted his image as a successful businessman.
Reality Television Career
In 2003, Trump became the executive producer and host of the The Apprentice, a reality show on NBC. The show, in which contestants competed for a management job within the Trump Organization, was a major hit and further increased Trump's fame.
Trump Organization
The Trump Organization is the umbrella company for Trump's hundreds of investments in real estate, branding, and other businesses. Despite controversies and legal challenges, it remains a major player in the global real estate industry.
Political Career and Presidency
Trump announced his candidacy for the U.S. presidency in 2015 and served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. His business career and acumen were central themes of his campaign and presidency.
Post-Presidency Business Activities
Following his presidency, Trump returned to his business ventures, which faced a number of challenges due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fallout from his political activities.