Gatsby and Daisy first met during World War I when Gatsby, then James Gatz, was stationed near Daisy’s hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. At the time, Daisy was a beautiful young woman who was courted by many, including the wealthy Tom Buchanan. Gatsby, who came from humble beginnings, fell in love with Daisy’s charm and beauty. During a brief romance, they shared a passionate love before Gatsby was deployed to war.
When Gatsby returned from the war, he learned that Daisy had married Tom Buchanan, which led him to seek wealth and status in hopes of winning her back. Their initial meeting set the stage for the complex relationship that unfolds throughout the novel, illustrating themes of love, ambition, and the American Dream.