Constructing History - Trump

Modern history prelim topic

What year was Donald Trump born and where?

Born in 1946 in Queens, New York.

What business background did Donald Trump inherit?

Inherited wealth and business connections from his father, Fred Trump.

What media persona did Donald Trump build before his presidency?

Reality TV star on The Apprentice (2004-2015), known as an outsider and straight-talker.

What slogan encapsulated Trump's populist appeal during the 2016 election?

'Make America Great Again' appealed to nostalgia, nationalism, and disillusionment with globalization.

What was Trump's stance on immigration during his campaign?

Advocated for a border wall with Mexico and promised tough policies on illegal immigration.

How did Trump communicate with the public during his campaign?

Used Twitter as a direct channel to the public, making deliberately controversial statements.

What role did Hillary Clinton play in Trump's 2016 campaign success?

Opposition to Clinton, seen as establishment and connected to scandals, helped energize Trump's base.

What was one of the major executive orders Trump issued in his first 100 days?

The Travel Ban, which banned entry from several Muslim-majority countries.

What significant healthcare initiative did Trump attempt during his first 100 days?

Attempted to repeal Obamacare (Affordable Care Act), which failed in Congress.

What foreign policy action did Trump take shortly after taking office?

Withdrew from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and ordered missile strikes in Syria.

How is Trump's presidency characterized in terms of media relations?

Chaotic and confrontational, with heavy use of Twitter to bypass traditional press.

What are two contrasting views on Trump's first 100 days in office?

Some argue he disrupted 'politics as usual'; others say it was marked by instability and polarisation.

How do supporters view Trump in terms of traditional values?

As a defender of traditional values, protecting jobs, borders, Christianity, and patriotism.

What do critics argue about Trump's impact on democracy?

Critics see him as undermining democracy, the rule of law, and truth.

What are the two main historical perspectives on Trump?

Revisionist views see him as a product of populist cycles; progressive views see him as a threat to liberal democracy.

What are the key debates historians have regarding Trump?

Supporters view him as an outsider and voice of forgotten America; critics see him as a demagogue and threat to democracy.

How does the politcal spectrum portray Trump differently?

Right-wing media often portrays him as a patriot under siege; left-wing media portrays him as reckless or authoritarian.

Which historical leaders do some historians compare Trump to?

Some place him in a tradition of populist leaders like Andrew Jackson and Reagan.

What unique aspect do some historians stress about Trump's presidency?

His uniqueness in breaking democratic norms.

What economic grievances did Trump address during his campaign?

Promised to bring back manufacturing jobs to working-class Americans in the Rust Belt.

What was a significant factor in Trump's media strategy during his campaign?

Deliberately controversial statements kept him in the headlines.

What was the public perception of Trump as a political outsider?

He capitalized on public distrust of Washington elites and career politicians.