Mad Men season 1 episode 12 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
In "Nixon vs. Kennedy," the Sterling Cooper team is abuzz with election fever, as Duck Phillips is introduced, potentially joining the firm. Pete Campbell, eyeing a promotion, discovers Don Draper's secret identity as Dick Whitman and attempts to use this information as leverage. The episode flashes back to Korea, revealing the origin of Don's identity switch. Meanwhile, Don, in a moment of crisis, proposes an impulsive escape to Rachel Menken, who rejects him. The episode culminates with Nixon's concession, paralleling themes of loss and revelation in the characters' personal lives.
Full Episode S01E12 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Duck Phillips?
Duck Phillips is a potential new hire at Sterling Cooper, known for landing American Airlines.
What is Pete Campbell's ambition in the episode?
Pete Campbell is ambitious to become the head of account services at Sterling Cooper.
How does the Sterling Cooper staff react to the election night?
The staff at Sterling Cooper show a mix of excitement and anxiety during the election night party as they await the results.
What frustrations does Peggy Olsen express in this episode?
Peggy Olsen is frustrated with her job, feeling misunderstood and noticing the unfair treatment of people at Sterling Cooper.
What secret about Don Draper does Pete Campbell discover?
Pete Campbell discovers that Don Draper's real identity is Dick Whitman.
How does Bert Cooper react to Pete's revelation about Don?
Bert Cooper is surprisingly indifferent to Don's past and advises Pete to focus on his job.
What is Don Draper's proposal to Rachel Menken?
Don Draper proposes that he and Rachel Menken run away together to start a new life.
What is the reaction of Rachel Menken to Don's proposal?
Rachel Menken rejects Don's proposal, seeing it as a desperate attempt to escape rather than a genuine commitment.
What is revealed in the flashback to Korea?
The flashback to Korea reveals that the real Don Draper died and Dick Whitman assumed his identity.
How does the episode end for Pete Campbell?
Despite his blackmail attempt, Pete Campbell's career seems unaffected by the end of the episode.
What significant event closes the episode?
The episode closes with Nixon conceding the election.
What theme is reflected in Nixon's concession?
Nixon's concession reflects themes of loss and acceptance.
What is the significance of Duck Phillips in the episode?
Duck Phillips represents a potential change in the dynamics at Sterling Cooper and the possibility of new leadership.
How does Don Draper's past affect his current situation?
Don's fabricated identity as Don Draper, originating from his past, creates a complex and uncertain future for him.
What does Pete Campbell use as leverage for his promotion?
Pete Campbell uses his knowledge of Don Draper's true identity as leverage for a promotion.
