Over the past thirty years, Donald Trump’s marriages have often been spotlighted in the media. As he built his real estate empire, Donald started his journey into matrimony with his first wife, Ivana Trump.

Ivana became a vital part of his business ventures, and together they raised three children—Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric. However, after over ten years together, their marriage came to an end in 1989 when Ivana discovered Donald’s affair with model Marla Maples.

The scandal unfolded during an unexpected confrontation in Aspen, Colorado, where both women were vacationing. Realizing her marriage was over, Ivana filed for divorce in early 1990.

Post-separation, Donald stayed with Maples, despite the media frenzy surrounding his family and the divorce. Not long after finalizing the split with Ivana, Maples became pregnant with Donald’s fourth child. Their daughter, Tiffany, was born in 1993, and the couple wed shortly after. Unfortunately, their marriage lasted only a few years, leading to their separation in 1997. The divorce proceedings stretched over two years, during which Donald met his current wife, Melania Trump. They dated for several years, got married in 2005, and welcomed their son, Barron, the following year. Melania has since stood by Donald’s side as he ventured into politics, including his presidency, facing numerous challenges. Let’s take a closer look at Donald Trump’s marriages.

Ivana Trump

Donald met Ivana, originally Ivana Zelníčková, in 1976. Ivana, working in Montreal as a model and ski instructor, was visiting New York for modeling work when she met Donald at a dinner with fellow models. Donald, joining their table, showed his interest in her, eventually capturing her attention with grand gestures like sending roses and making frequent calls. After a romantic vacation in Aspen, and despite knowing each other briefly, they decided to marry.

The couple wed on April 9, 1977, in New York City, and honeymooned in Mexico, where Ivana unexpectedly became pregnant. Their first child, Donald Jr., was born on December 31, 1977, marking their engagement anniversary. During their marriage, Ivanka was born in 1981, and Eric followed in 1984. Ivana was not only Donald’s partner but also his business associate, significantly contributing to his real estate empire.

However, the marriage ended in 1989 when Ivana discovered Donald’s affair with Marla. The encounter led to a confrontation in Aspen, after which Ivana knew their relationship was over, filing for divorce in March 1990. Ivana exited the Trump Organization during the divorce proceedings, challenging the prenup for a higher settlement due to her contributions.

Despite the dramatic divorce, Ivana and Donald maintained a friendly relationship, co-parenting their children successfully. Ivana supported Donald during his time in office and remained a respected figure in his life until she passed away in July 2022. Donald warmly remembered her as a wonderful and inspirational person.

Marla Maples

Marla Maples entered Donald’s life in 1985 at a celebrity tennis event while he was still married to Ivana. Although their relationship was initially platonic, it developed into romance and became visible by 1989, causing quite a stir. Maples moved onto Donald’s yacht and despite knowing he was married, she never regarded herself as a “mistress.”

Their affair led to the famous confrontation in Aspen. Despite the chaotic situation, Maples said she encouraged Donald to make things work with Ivana for the sake of their children. Following Donald and Ivana’s official split, Maples stayed under intense public and media scrutiny. She even denied statements attributed to her by the press.

Eventually, Marla became pregnant with Donald’s daughter, Tiffany, in 1993, prompting their marriage shortly afterward. The couple tied the knot in an extravagant ceremony, hosting numerous celebrities. Despite their efforts, their marriage ended in 1997 due to differing worldviews and personal ambitions.

Their divorce was finalized two years later, with Maples emphasizing the need to move on without holding onto financial settlement disputes. Despite receiving modest financial terms due to a prenuptial agreement, Marla moved forward amicably, maintaining good relations with Donald and his family.

Years later, both individuals have maintained friendly ties, showing maturity and respect as they continue co-parenting Tiffany.

Melania Trump

While Donald settled his divorce with Marla, he met model Melania Knauss at a party in 1998. Their relationship had its share of ups and downs initially, but they grew closer over time. They officially tied the knot in January 2005 in a lavish ceremony attended by notable guests.

Shortly after marrying, they announced the arrival of their son, Barron. Melania prioritized her role as a mother, yet continued with her individual pursuits alongside supporting Donald’s ventures.

As Donald announced his presidential candidacy in 2015, Melania stood back at times to focus on Barron but remained supportive. Becoming first lady in 2017, she aimed to be different, focusing on helping women and children.

However, the role brought challenges, especially with reports of Donald’s alleged past affairs emerging. Melania chose silence in the face of these claims, focusing on raising her son and maintaining a private life. The First Lady’s friend described her as living apart from the public chaos, prioritizing her family.

Since Donald’s presidency ended, Melania has largely remained out of view, concentrating on family life at the Mar-a-Lago estate. Despite controversies and their influences, Melania reportedly continues to maintain happiness and love surrounding her, even with upcoming political prospects.

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