PersonPolitics & Government

Melania Trump

@melaniatrump

Explore the life journey of Melania Trump, from her early days in Slovenia to her role as the First Lady of the United States. This timeline covers key events and milestones in her personal life, modeling career, and public service.

Born April 26, 1970
Known as Former First Lady of the United States
Novo Mesto, Slovenia
Education
U
University of Ljubljana (did not graduate)
12Events
51Years
1970
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2010
2020
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1992
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2016
2018
2022
20January
2021
20 Jan 2021

End of Tenure as First Lady

Melania Trump's term as First Lady ended on January 20, 2021, as Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 46th President of the United States. Her time in the role was characterized by her efforts on the 'Be Best' initiative, her distinct style, and a series of controversies. Following her departure, Melania has maintained a relatively low profile, focusing on her family and private life.

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02October
2020
02 Oct 2020

COVID-19 Diagnosis

On October 2, 2020, Melania Trump tested positive for COVID-19, alongside her husband, President Donald Trump. The diagnosis was announced by the White House and received worldwide media coverage. Melania reported mild symptoms, including a cough and headache, and she emphasized the importance of following health guidelines and taking precautions during the pandemic. The incident underscored the viral reach of COVID-19, impacting even high-profile figures.

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21June
2018
21 Jun 2018

Controversy Over Jacket

During a visit to an immigration detention center in McAllen, Texas, on June 21, 2018, Melania Trump wore a jacket with the phrase 'I REALLY DON'T CARE, DO U?' printed on the back. The choice of clothing sparked significant media attention and debate, raising questions about the message she intended to send during an already sensitive political situation involving family separations at the border.

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07May
2018
07 May 2018

Launch of Be Best Campaign

On May 7, 2018, Melania Trump launched her 'Be Best' initiative, which focuses on the welfare of children. The campaign highlights three main pillars: well-being, online safety, and the opioid crisis. Her goal was to address some of the major issues facing children in today’s world, by promoting healthy living, encouraging positive social and emotional habits, and supporting broader community conversations about these issues.

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20January
2017
20 Jan 2017

Becomes First Lady

Melania Trump became the First Lady of the United States on January 20, 2017, following the inauguration of her husband, Donald Trump, as the 45th President. As First Lady, she embarked on initiatives centered around the well-being of children, particularly in areas such as cyberbullying, health, and safety. Her tenure was marked by a combination of glamour and controversy, as she sought to define her own role in a contentious political climate.

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18July
2016
18 Jul 2016

Controversial RNC Speech

Melania Trump gave a speech at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio, on July 18, 2016. Her speech was intended to support her husband Donald Trump’s presidential bid. However, it quickly became controversial due to striking similarities with a speech given by Michelle Obama at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, leading to allegations of plagiarism and widespread media scrutiny.

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28July
2006
28 Jul 2006

U.S. Citizenship

Melania Trump became a naturalized citizen of the United States on July 28, 2006. This was an important milestone in her life, as she took the oath of allegiance and became a full-fledged participant in American society. Her journey from Slovenia to citizenship reflects the diverse paths that lead individuals to become American citizens, and by gaining citizenship, she became eligible for roles including that of the First Lady.

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20March
2006
20 Mar 2006

Birth of Barron Trump

Melania Trump gave birth to Barron William Trump on March 20, 2006, in New York City. Barron is Melania and Donald Trump's only child together. Melania has been a devoted mother to Barron, often speaking about her commitment to providing him with a nurturing environment and keeping him shielded from the spotlight as much as possible.

22January
2005
22 Jan 2005

Marriage to Donald Trump

On January 22, 2005, Melania Knauss married real estate mogul Donald Trump in a lavish ceremony at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. The event drew considerable media attention and was attended by numerous celebrities, highlighting Melania's transition from a high-profile model to the wife of a prominent businessman and public figure.

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01January
2001
01 Jan 2001

Receives Green Card

Melania Trump received her green card in 2001, granting her lawful permanent residence status in the United States. She achieved this status through the EB-1 program, often referred to as the 'Einstein visa,' which is reserved for individuals with 'extraordinary ability.' Her application highlighted her successful international modeling career and recognition in her field, paving the way for her path to U.S. citizenship.

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01January
1996
01 Jan 1996

Move to the United States

In 1996, Melania Knauss moved to the United States to pursue a career in modeling. Her move marked the beginning of her professional modeling career in America, where she achieved success working with famous photographers and appearing in high-profile campaigns. This move set the stage for her future endeavors in the country and eventual path to becoming the First Lady of the United States.

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26April
1970
26 Apr 1970

Birth of Melania Trump

Melania Trump was born on April 26, 1970, in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, then part of Yugoslavia. She was born as Melanija Knavs and later Germanized her name to Melania Knauss when she began modeling in Europe. Melania is the daughter of Viktor Knavs, a car and motorcycle dealer, and Amalija, a patternmaker at a children's clothing manufacturer.

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Frequently asked questions about Melania Trump

Discover commonly asked questions regarding Melania Trump. If there are any questions we may have overlooked, please let us know.

When did Melania Trump move to the United States?

When did Melania Trump marry Donald Trump?

When was Melania Trump born?

When did Melania Trump become the First Lady of the United States?