What Would Don Draper Have Been Up to in 1987?

Don Draper, the iconic character from 'Mad Men,' has captivated audiences for years with his complex and compelling narrative. If we were to fast forward to 1987, what might we expect his life to look like? This article delves into the life of Don Draper in the mid-1980s, considering the significant changes in society, the advertising landscape, and Don's personal journey.

Don Draper at Mid-Life: Early 1980s

By the early 1980s, Don Draper's career began to stall. As a creative director at Sterling Cooper, he faced increasing pressure from newer, younger talent. Additionally, his third marriage to Vietnamese refugee Tran Mai failed, contributing to a public perception of him as a washed-up alcoholic. Despite these setbacks, Don managed to make a substantial comeback, regaining his confidence and proving his worth to the agency.

Life in the Late 1980s

By the late 1980s, Don would have likely reached the pinnacle of his career. The decade saw several significant shifts, including the rise of New York City as the financial capital and a boom in the stock and bond markets. It was a period marked by economic growth, but also by extravagance and excess.

Wall Street Onslaught

Wall Street: Don would probably find himself on Wall Street, a domain of the wealthiest and most powerful figures in the financial world. He would be a part of the 'Masters of the Universe,' trading stocks and bonds with the fervor typical of the era. The deregulation of the financial industry in the late 1980s would have allowed for a more speculative and high-risk environment, providing ample opportunities for success and indulgence.

Stock Market: The late 1980s were characterized by the bull market, making stocks incredibly attractive. Don, with his sharp business acumen, would undoubtedly take advantage of this favorable climate, underwriting and trading securities with ease. His connections on Wall Street would ensure access to exclusive clients and lucrative deals.

Cocaine Culture: The 1980s were known for their lavish parties and the widespread use of cocaine. Don would indulge in this trend, using it as yet another tool to keep up appearances and impress colleagues and clients. He would be seen driving a BMW, one of the luxury vehicles emblematic of the decade, and engaging in heavy drinking sessions with his business associates.

Political Ideals: Reagan and the 1980s

The 1980s saw a strong conservatism shaped by the presidency of Ronald Reagan. Don would embrace this political zeitgeist, likely seeking to distance himself from the liberal, counterculture ethos of the 1960s and 1970s. He would ridicule computers as a symbol of modernity and progress, perhaps even criticizing them as a threat to the traditional advertising industry.

Advertising Renaissance: Don's Midlife Renaissance

Given his late-life rediscovery of his talents, Don would likely gravitate towards the vibrant and competitive world of advertising. The 1980s saw a resurgence in creative marketing and branding, providing myriad opportunities for talented individuals like Don to reinvent themselves. His efforts would focus on colorful and dynamic ads, set against the backdrop of a decade known for its consumerist culture.

color and Creativity: Don would surely concentrate on ads that were eye-catching and engaging. Poster designs, print ads, and television spots would showcase the bold and sly charm that had defined his advertising career in the 1960s and 1970s. His work would be characterized by a blend of traditional techniques and innovative thinking, aligning with the consumerist ethos of the time.

Personal Growth: Navigating Midlife

As he neared his mid-sixties, Don would still exude charm and distinction, a far cry from the ragged and battle-worn man he portrayed in the original series. He would still work hard, driven by a desire to be relevant and respected. However, his life would likely show signs of maturity and wisdom. The pressures of his past failures would have been tempered by a clearer understanding of the importance of resilience and adaptability.

Conclusion

What would Don Draper have been up to in 1987? Given the economic and cultural shifts of the era, it's clear that Don would have been a prominent figure, well into the prime of his career. His story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the enduring appeal of the quintessential businessman. As the 1980s reshaped the advertising and financial worlds, Don Draper would undoubtedly have navigated this transformative period with his trademark style and skill, possibly even picking up new habits and trends.

Keywords

Don Draper, 1987, Advertising Era