Mad Men Timeline ( Real )

tv_show_premiere
July 19, 2007

Premiere of Mad Men

The first episode of Mad Men aired on AMC, introducing viewers to the 1960s advertising world.

award
September 21, 2008

Emmy Award Wins for Mad Men

Mad Men won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series, reflecting critical acclaim.

tv_show_finale
May 17, 2015

Final Episode of Mad Men

The series finale aired, concluding the story of Don Draper and other characters amid 1960s cultural shifts.

Mad Men Timeline ( Fictional )

career_event
1960-01

Don Draper's Arrival at Sterling Cooper

Don Draper joins Sterling Cooper as the creative director, bringing his unique vision and style to the advertising agency.

career_event
1960-03

Peggy Olson Becomes Don's Secretary

Peggy Olson starts working as Don Draper's secretary, marking the beginning of her journey in the advertising world.

personal_revelation
1963-07

Don Draper's Secret Identity Revealed

Don Draper's true identity as Dick Whitman is unveiled, exposing his complex past and adding layers to his character.

career_event
1964-09

Peggy Olson Promoted to Copywriter

Peggy Olson is promoted from secretary to copywriter, breaking gender barriers in the firm.

business_event
1963-12

Formation of Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce

The founding partners, including Don Draper, leave Sterling Cooper to start their own agency, Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce.

personal_event
1966-02

Betty Draper's Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Betty Draper receives a diagnosis of breast cancer, which deeply affects her life and family.

personal_event
1967-05

Don Draper's Divorce from Betty

Don and Betty Draper finalize their divorce, ending their complicated marriage.

personal_event
1970-08

Peggy Olson's Relationship with Stan Rizzo Begins

Peggy and Stan Rizzo begin their romantic relationship, evolving both characters personally and professionally.

business_event
1970-11

Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce Merges with McCann Erickson

The agency merges with the larger firm McCann Erickson, leading to major changes in operations and culture.

personal_event
1970-12

Don Draper's Final Journey to California

Don Draper goes on a retreat to California, culminating in his personal transformation and the creation of a famous advertising campaign.