President Trump's administration's potential acceptance of a $400 million luxury jet from Qatar is controversial but not unprecedented. US leaders have historically received extravagant gifts from foreign heads of state, starting from the country's founding. Lincoln turned down a herd of elephants but accepted a finely crafted sword. Other notable gifts include a wooden desk from Queen Victoria and pandas from China to Nixon. Controversy arises again with Trump's jet, echoing past debates over presidential extravagance.
The practice of accepting lavish gifts from foreign leaders by US presidents dates back to the nation's founding in 1776, with a rich history of unique designs.
Historical precedents show that while some gifts were accepted, others, like Lincoln's herd of elephants from the King of Siam, were respectfully declined.
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