Donald Trump in the Year 1970
Rising Real Estate Mogul in New York City
Donald Trump's rise to prominence began in the 1970s, a decade that shaped his business acumen and public persona. As a young real estate developer in New York City, Trump made his first significant moves in the high-stakes world of Manhattan property development. His acquisition and renovation of the Commodore Hotel near Grand Central Station in 1976 marked a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his ambitious vision and negotiating skills.
Trump's activities during this period were not without controversy. In 1973, at the age of 27, he found himself on the front page of The New York Times when the U.S. Department of Justice sued Trump Management Corporation for alleged racial discrimination in housing rentals. This lawsuit would be the first of many legal battles that would define Trump's public image over the decades to come.
The 1970s also saw Trump cultivating relationships with influential figures and mastering the art of media attention. His bold personality and business strategies began to attract notice, setting the stage for his transformation into a celebrity businessman in the following decades. These formative years in New York City laid the groundwork for Trump's future endeavors in real estate, entertainment, and eventually, politics.
Early Life and Education
Donald John Trump was born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York. He was the fourth of five children born to Fred Trump, a real estate developer, and Mary Anne MacLeod Trump, a Scottish immigrant.
Trump grew up in a wealthy family in Jamaica Estates, Queens. His father's successful real estate business provided a comfortable upbringing for young Donald and his siblings.
For his early education, Trump attended the private Kew-Forest School in Forest Hills, Queens. At age 13, he was enrolled in the New York Military Academy, a private boarding school in Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York.
After graduating from the military academy in 1964, Trump pursued higher education at Fordham University in the Bronx. He spent two years there before transferring to the Wharton School of Finance and Commerce at the University of Pennsylvania.
In 1968, Trump earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics from Wharton. This education would later prove valuable in his business endeavors and real estate career in New York City.
Following his graduation, Trump returned to New York to join his father's real estate company, Elizabeth Trump & Son. This marked the beginning of his career in the family business and set the stage for his future ventures in New York City's real estate market.
The Trump Management Corporation
The Trump Management Corporation was a New York-based real estate company that owned thousands of apartments across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island in the 1970s. It became embroiled in a high-profile housing discrimination case brought by the Department of Justice.
Founding and Origins
Fred Trump founded the Trump Management Corporation in the 1920s. The company focused on building and managing apartment complexes in New York City's outer boroughs. By the early 1970s, Donald Trump had joined the family business and become president of the corporation at age 27.
The company owned over 14,000 apartments in Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. Fred Trump's developments included large rental complexes like Beach Haven and Shore Haven in Brooklyn. The Trump Management Corporation became one of the largest landlords in New York City's outer boroughs.
Housing Developments in New York
Trump Management Corporation's portfolio consisted primarily of middle-income rental housing in New York City. Major developments included:
Beach Haven: 2,700 apartments in Coney Island, Brooklyn
Shore Haven: 1,600 apartments in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn
Trump Village: 3,800 apartments in Coney Island, Brooklyn
The company focused on building and acquiring large apartment complexes in working-class and middle-income neighborhoods. Their properties housed thousands of New York families across the outer boroughs.
Fair Housing Act and DOJ Involvement
In October 1973, the Department of Justice filed a civil rights lawsuit against Trump Management Corporation. The suit alleged the company violated the Fair Housing Act by discriminating against Black rental applicants.
The DOJ used testers to gather evidence of discriminatory practices at Trump properties. Black and white testers inquired about apartments and received different treatment. The lawsuit claimed Trump Management:
Falsely stated apartments were not available to Black applicants
Quoted higher rents and worse terms to Black applicants
Steered Black applicants away from white-occupied buildings
Trump Management denied wrongdoing but signed a consent decree in 1975 agreeing to anti-discrimination measures. The company did not admit guilt as part of the settlement.
The Political Landscape of the 1970s
The 1970s marked a turbulent period in American politics, characterized by war, scandal, economic turmoil, and social unrest. These factors reshaped public perception and eroded trust in governmental institutions.
Vietnam War's Shadow
The Vietnam War cast a long shadow over American politics in the early 1970s. President Lyndon Johnson's escalation of the conflict led to widespread anti-war protests. The war's unpopularity contributed to Johnson's decision not to seek reelection in 1968.
The conflict continued under Nixon's administration. His policy of "Vietnamization" aimed to gradually withdraw U.S. troops while increasing South Vietnamese military capabilities. However, the war's impact on American society remained profound.
Public opinion turned sharply against U.S. involvement. The release of the Pentagon Papers in 1971 revealed government deception about the war's progress, further eroding public trust.
Nixon and Watergate
The Watergate scandal defined Nixon's presidency and American politics in the mid-1970s. It began with a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in 1972.
Subsequent investigations revealed Nixon's involvement in covering up the crime. The scandal exposed widespread corruption and abuse of power within the administration.
Key events:
Senate Watergate hearings (1973)
"Saturday Night Massacre" (1973)
Release of incriminating White House tapes (1974)
Nixon's resignation (August 1974)
Watergate profoundly impacted public trust in government institutions. It fueled a cynicism that would persist for decades.
Stagflation and Economic Challenges
The 1970s saw unprecedented economic challenges. "Stagflation" - a combination of high inflation and economic stagnation - baffled policymakers.
Key economic issues:
Oil crises (1973 and 1979)
Double-digit inflation
Rising unemployment
Wage and price controls
These problems eroded confidence in the government's ability to manage the economy. They contributed to a sense of malaise and uncertainty about America's future.
The Social Climate
Social upheaval characterized the 1970s. The decade saw continued civil rights struggles, the rise of the women's movement, and environmental activism.
Distrust of institutions extended beyond government. Secret FBI memos revealed surveillance of civil rights leaders, fueling paranoia. The Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision in 1973 intensified cultural divisions.
The era's cynicism influenced popular culture. Films like "All the President's Men" reflected a growing skepticism toward authority. This atmosphere shaped the worldviews of many Americans, including a young Donald Trump in New York City.
Donald Trump's Rise in Real Estate
Donald Trump emerged as a prominent figure in real estate during the 1970s and 1980s. His ambitious projects and shrewd business tactics propelled him to the forefront of New York's property development scene.
Manhattan Developments
Trump's first major Manhattan project was the renovation of the Commodore Hotel in 1976. He transformed the aging property into the Grand Hyatt, securing tax abatements from the city. This deal established his reputation as a savvy negotiator.
In 1979, Trump acquired the site for Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue. The 58-story skyscraper, completed in 1983, became his signature property and personal residence. Its distinctive design and luxury amenities attracted high-profile tenants and buyers.
Trump also redeveloped the old Bonwit Teller building into Trump Plaza in 1984. These projects solidified his status as a major player in Manhattan real estate.
Expansion into Atlantic City
Trump ventured into the casino business in Atlantic City during the early 1980s. He opened Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino in 1984, followed by Trump's Castle in 1985.
The Trump Taj Mahal, billed as the "eighth wonder of the world," opened in 1990. It was the most expensive casino ever built at the time, costing $1.1 billion.
Despite initial success, Trump's Atlantic City ventures faced financial troubles in later years. The properties accumulated significant debt, leading to multiple bankruptcy filings.
Publicity and Media Relations
Trump cultivated a high-profile public image throughout his real estate career. He frequently appeared in New York tabloids and national media outlets.
His 1987 book "The Art of the Deal" became a bestseller, further enhancing his celebrity status. Trump leveraged media attention to promote his properties and personal brand.
He developed relationships with journalists at The New York Times and other publications. These connections often resulted in favorable coverage of his projects and business acumen.
Trump's flamboyant personality and quotable statements made him a regular fixture in newspapers and on television throughout the 1980s and beyond.
Cultural Impact and Public Persona
Donald Trump's rise to prominence in the 1970s marked the beginning of his substantial influence on American culture and media. His bold personality and business ventures shaped perceptions of New York City and the broader cultural landscape.
Influence on New York City's Image
Trump's real estate projects in the 1970s helped reshape New York City's skyline and image. His renovation of the Grand Hyatt Hotel in 1976 revitalized a declining area near Grand Central Terminal. This project established Trump as a major player in New York real estate.
Trump Tower, completed in 1983, became an iconic symbol of luxury and wealth in Manhattan. The building's gleaming facade and opulent interiors reflected Trump's taste for grandeur and excess.
His developments contributed to the city's image as a place of ambition and success. Trump's projects often sparked controversy but undeniably left their mark on New York's urban landscape.
Relationship with the News and Media
Trump cultivated a savvy relationship with the New York media from early in his career. He understood the power of publicity and actively sought press coverage for his projects and personal life.
He frequently appeared in newspapers and tabloids, providing quotes and insider information to reporters. This approach kept Trump in the public eye and helped build his reputation as a successful businessman.
Trump's knack for generating headlines and controversy made him a regular fixture in New York's media landscape. He leveraged this attention to promote his brand and business interests throughout the 1970s and beyond.
Emergence as a Celebrity Figure
In the 1970s and 1980s, Trump transitioned from a real estate developer to a celebrity figure. His flamboyant lifestyle and high-profile romantic relationships attracted significant media attention.
Trump's 1987 book "The Art of the Deal" became a bestseller and further elevated his public profile. The book portrayed Trump as a master negotiator and dealmaker, cementing his image as a business icon.
His frequent appearances on talk shows and in magazines solidified his status as a celebrity. Trump's persona as a brash, outspoken tycoon resonated with many Americans and laid the groundwork for his later forays into entertainment and politics.
Racial Issues and Civil Rights Movement
The 1970s saw significant racial tensions and civil rights challenges in housing and urban development. Donald Trump and his family's real estate business faced allegations of discrimination during this turbulent period.
Actions of Trump Management
In 1973, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Trump Management, alleging racial discrimination in their rental practices. The suit claimed the company refused to rent apartments to Black tenants and gave false information about availability to Black applicants.
Trump Management owned numerous apartment buildings in New York City. The company allegedly marked applications from Black people with a "C" for "colored" and steered them away from white-majority buildings.
Despite denying wrongdoing, Trump Management reached a settlement with the Justice Department in 1975. They agreed to furnish the New York Urban League with a list of vacancies and allow the organization to present qualified applicants for a portion of those vacancies.
Influences on Racial Policies
The civil rights movement of the 1960s had a profound impact on housing policies in the United States. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 prohibited discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, or national origin.
Trump's early career in real estate coincided with these changing social and legal landscapes. His company's practices came under scrutiny as enforcement of fair housing laws increased.
The Central Park Five case in 1989 further highlighted racial tensions in New York City. Trump took out full-page ads calling for the reinstatement of the death penalty, which many viewed as racially charged given the case's circumstances.
Legal Challenges and the Court of Public Opinion
In 1973, Donald Trump faced his first major legal battle. The Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Trump Management Corporation, alleging violations of the Fair Housing Act.
The suit claimed Trump's company discriminated against African American rental applicants. Trump denied the allegations and countersued for $100 million, accusing the government of defamation.
This case marked Trump's introduction to high-profile legal challenges and media scrutiny. The New York Times reported extensively on the suit, bringing it to national attention.
Trump adopted an aggressive legal strategy, fighting the charges vigorously. This approach would become a hallmark of his future dealings with the justice system.
After two years of litigation, the case ended in a settlement. Trump Management agreed to change its rental practices but did not admit guilt.
The resolution allowed Trump to claim victory in the court of public opinion. He framed the outcome as a win against government overreach.
This early legal battle shaped Trump's tactics for handling future controversies. He learned to use media attention to his advantage and portray himself as a fighter against unfair accusations.
Donald Trump's Political Connections
Donald Trump's involvement in politics during the 1970s was marked by strategic relationships and early signs of presidential ambitions. His interactions with key political figures and public statements hinted at his future trajectory in the political arena.
Relationship with Political Figures
Trump cultivated connections with prominent politicians in the 1970s. He developed a friendship with Roy Cohn, former chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy. This relationship provided Trump access to New York's political circles.
Trump also established ties with New York Governor Hugh Carey. Their association proved beneficial for Trump's real estate projects. He engaged with both Republican and Democratic figures, demonstrating a non-partisan approach to networking.
In 1976, Trump attended the Republican National Convention, further expanding his political contacts. His growing influence in New York's business community allowed him to interact with various local and state officials.
Presidential Aspirations and Political Ambitions
Trump's interest in the presidency emerged in the late 1970s. He began making public statements on national issues, positioning himself as a potential future candidate.
In 1980, Trump expressed admiration for Ronald Reagan's campaign style. He attended a presidential debate, observing the political process firsthand. This experience likely shaped his understanding of national politics.
Trump's media appearances increased during this period. He discussed economic policies and international relations, topics typically addressed by seasoned politicians. These public commentaries laid the groundwork for his future political career.
By the end of the 1970s, Trump had established a reputation as a politically connected businessman with national ambitions. His actions during this decade set the stage for his later political endeavors.
Historical Context and Legacy
Donald Trump's views and approach to politics were significantly shaped by the social and economic climate of the 1970s. This decade's influence continued to resonate throughout his business career and later presidential term.
1970s as a Formative Decade
The 1970s marked a pivotal period in Trump's development as a businessman and public figure. Economic instability, urban decay, and rising crime rates in New York City formed the backdrop of his early real estate ventures. Trump's aggressive business tactics and media-savvy persona emerged during this time.
He gained prominence through high-profile projects like the renovation of the Commodore Hotel. This deal, finalized in 1976, showcased Trump's ability to negotiate complex agreements with city officials and financial institutions.
The decade's pervasive distrust of institutions deeply influenced Trump's worldview. This skepticism towards established power structures would later become a defining feature of his political rhetoric and governing style.
Comparisons with Later Presidential Figures
Trump's presidency differed markedly from those of his immediate predecessors, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. While Clinton and Obama generally worked within existing political frameworks, Trump positioned himself as an outsider intent on disrupting the status quo.
His approach to the presidency more closely resembled the populist, anti-establishment sentiment of the 1970s than the technocratic governance styles of recent administrations. Trump's use of direct communication channels, such as social media, bypassed traditional media outlets in a way reminiscent of earlier populist figures.
Historians like Julian Zelizer of Princeton University have noted the connections between Trump's political style and the themes that dominated 1970s America. This link provides context for understanding Trump's appeal to voters who felt alienated from mainstream political institutions.
