Donald Trump's Childhood

Born Into a Wealthy Family

Donald John Trump was born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York City, to Fred and Mary Trump. Fred Trump was a successful real estate developer, which meant Donald grew up in a life of privilege. He was the fourth of five children, and the Trump family lived in a large, comfortable home. From a young age, Donald was exposed to the world of business through his father, sparking an early interest in real estate.

A Boisterous Young Boy

As a child, Trump was known for his energetic and assertive personality. He had a strong will and was often described as a troublemaker in school, with a tendency to push boundaries. His parents noticed his need for discipline early on and believed that Donald needed a structured environment to channel his energy.

Military School for Discipline

At the age of 13, Donald’s parents sent him to New York Military Academy (NYMA) in an effort to rein in his rambunctious behavior. NYMA provided Trump with a strict, disciplined environment, which he later credited for teaching him focus and responsibility. While he was initially reluctant, he thrived there, becoming a star athlete and a leader among his peers. Military school gave him a sense of order and control, two qualities that would later play a major role in his life and career.

Influence of His Father

Fred Trump’s role in Donald’s life was significant. Fred had a tough, no-nonsense approach to business, and Donald absorbed many of his father’s values. He would often accompany his father to construction sites and real estate offices, learning the ropes of the family business. Fred instilled in Donald the importance of being aggressive in the business world, a lesson that would shape Trump’s own approach to his career.

Sibling Dynamics

Growing up in a large family, Donald had a close but competitive relationship with his siblings. His older brother, Fred Jr., was expected to take over the family business, but his struggles with alcoholism led to Donald stepping into the spotlight. Donald’s relationship with Fred Jr. deeply affected him, and he later spoke about how his brother’s death in 1981 influenced his lifelong aversion to alcohol and cigarettes.

Early Signs of Ambition

Even as a child, Trump displayed a natural drive to succeed. He was known to be competitive in both academics and sports, excelling in baseball and football at military school. His ambition was evident in everything he did, from leading school projects to organizing social events. This determination would later manifest in his pursuit of business ventures and political ambitions.

College and Early Real Estate Ventures

After graduating from military school in 1964, Trump attended Fordham University for two years before transferring to the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a degree in economics in 1968. During this time, he began working for his father’s company, gaining practical experience in real estate. His early ventures in real estate development in Manhattan marked the beginning of what would become a real estate empire.