Top adman Don Draper works at one of New York's most prestigious ad agencies in the 1960s and '70s, but his personal life sometimes gets in the way of his performance at the office.
High-level executive Don Draper struggles to find ideas for a new cigarette camapign. Peggy Olson is hired as Don's new secretary and finds it difficult to fit in.
Don is forced to confront his less-than-ideal home life when his wife begins to suffer from mysterious bouts of paralysis. Peggy attracts unwanted attention from the accounts team.
Don gets closer to Rachel, but when she discovers that he is married, she insists her account with Sterling Cooper be handled by someone else.
Pete is forced to ask for financial aid from his disapproving father, and later his career is placed in jeopardy after he undermines Don in front of an affluent client.
Don's hidden past is brought to light after his photograph is published in an issue of Advertising Today, and Pete makes an unorthodox request of his wife Trudy.
After making valuable contributions to a brainstorming session, Peggy finds new opportunities opening up for her at the company. Don seeks advice from Rachel on a tricky commission.
Roger Sterling finds himself facing Don's wrath when he makes a pass at Betty during a dinner party, and Pete struggles to meet the demands of his new marriage.
Don recalls an episode from his youth when a vagrant taught him a lesson about his father. Meanwhile, Sal is put in a difficult position when a client takes him to dinner.
An opportunity arises for Betty to return to modelling - for an agency that is trying to secure Don's services. Meanwhile, Sterling Cooper tries to counter the latest JFK ads.
Don reacts badly to the loss of a lucrative contract, but Roger comes up with a plan to lift his spirits. Joan's friend Carol makes an unsettling confession.
Peggy is given the chance to promote an intriguing women's accessory. Meanwhile, the staff try to get Roger ready for an important meeting, and Betty receives a visitor.
On election night, the Sterling Cooper team gathers for a rowdy all-night party while watching the returns, and Pete's ambitions cause him to challenge Don directly.
As Thanksgiving approaches, Betty makes a startling discovery about her counselling sessions with Dr Wayne. Peggy is given a new account, angering Pete.