> The Roman Empire endured for 500 years.

> The Ottoman Empire lasted for six centuries, from the 14th to the early 20th.

> The British Empire continued to expand from its beginning in the late 16th century through the 19th, only to begin contracting in the 20th century following two economically-devastating world wars and the drive for independence by many of its territories.

> And now the United States — conceived and built on the democratic principles of peace and individual liberty — will be lucky to make it to its 250th birthday in July because of the expansionist ambitions of a man who would be Emperor at any cost.

While the historic details are vastly different, each empire has fallen for one simple, basic reason: the innate desire of human beings for political autonomy and personal freedom, and their refusal to continue living under oppressive regimes.

No one lives, or rules, forever. From Rome’s Emperor Augustus, to the Ottoman Empire’s Osman I, to England’s “Mad” King George III — each had his day of glory. And each passed into memory along with his empire. So why would anyone be foolish enough to emulate those long-ago autocrats who set their nations on the path to inevitable doom?

A psychiatrist would be far better qualified than I to analyze the character flaws that drive such men. But we, the people, have the advantage today of historic perspective, and the opportunity to prevent it from happening again.

The question is: Do we have the courage?

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
1/26/26