Donald Trump

Donald John Trump was born in Queens, New York, in 1946 to real estate developer Fred Trump. After graduating from the Wharton School of Business, he joined his father's company and eventually took it over, renaming it the Trump Organization. His early career focused on Manhattan real estate development before he turned his attention to Atlantic City.

Trump entered the casino business in 1984 with the opening of Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He followed with Trump Castle (later Trump Marina) in 1985 and the massive Trump Taj Mahal in 1990. The Taj Mahal, marketed as the "eighth wonder of the world," was the largest casino in the world when it opened.

Trump's approach to casinos emphasized branding and spectacle. His name became synonymous with his properties—large gold letters proclaimed "TRUMP" on every building. He courted high rollers with luxury amenities and marketed aggressively to attract visitors. His casinos aimed for a perception of luxury and success.

Trump pioneered the use of personal branding in the casino industry, demonstrating that a developer's name could itself become a marketing asset. His high-profile presence in Atlantic City helped establish the city as a East Coast gaming destination during its boom years. He also demonstrated both the potential rewards and significant risks of casino development.

Trump's Atlantic City properties faced significant financial difficulties, filing for bankruptcy multiple times as the market became saturated and regional competition emerged. While his casinos ultimately struggled, his branding approach influenced casino marketing nationwide. He later went on to become the 45th President of the United States.