Ep 1. 1980-83: Chaos Spells Opportunity

Empires of New York is a six-part documentary series that takes a look at the rise of influential figures in different industries who were able to turn New York into the powerhouse city that it is today. The first episode of the series is titled "1980-83: Chaos Spells Opportunity" and provides a deep dive into the political and economic climate of New York during this time.

The episode begins with a look at the early 1980s when New York City was at the brink of bankruptcy. The city was dealing with serious issues such as a high crime rate, a significant increase in homelessness, and widespread corruption within the government. This chaos was an opportunity for several influential figures, including real estate mogul Donald Trump, to make their mark on the city.

Trump understood the value of real estate in New York City and was able to take advantage of the city's financial situation to make some significant investments. He was able to purchase several iconic properties, including the Grand Hyatt Hotel and the Plaza Hotel, which he was able to refurbish and turn a profit on. Trump was confident in his ability to turn things around in the city, stating that he had a "magic formula" for success.

The documentary also highlights the tough-on-crime policies that were implemented by then-Mayor Ed Koch. These policies were controversial, but ultimately helped to reduce the city's crime rate and make New York a safer place to live. Koch's leadership style inspired many, including Wall Street executive and philanthropist Felix Rohatyn, who went on to play a significant role in the city's economic recovery.

Another influential figure highlighted in the episode is Richard Ravitch, who worked with Koch to help turn the city's finances around. Ravitch was instrumental in creating a plan that helped the city avoid bankruptcy by securing loans and restructuring the city's finances. He believed that New York City's greatness was worth fighting for, and that the city had a bright future ahead.

The episode also delves into the fashion industry, which was experiencing a period of renewal during this time. Designers like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein were creating new styles that were both sophisticated and accessible, and were able to capture the spirit of New York City in their designs. These designers saw New York City as a place of opportunity and creativity, and were able to use this energy to build successful fashion brands.

Overall, the first episode of Empires of New York provides a fascinating look at the city during a time of great turmoil and transformation. It highlights the important role that influential figures played in shaping the city's future, and how they were able to turn chaos into opportunity. The episode leaves viewers eager to see what other stories the series has in store.