American Empire in Decline – Comparison

“American democracy is obviously limping on both feet.” Unknown Russian official.

America, a Rome in Decline?

No doubt the Russian official has a biased perspective. If Trump succeeds in overcoming the limits of power, put in place by the Founding Fathers, and America becomes an authoritarian state, the communist regime of Russia will have justification in their monopoly of power. Not only the Russians will welcome this outcome, admittedly unlikely scenario, but so will the leaders of all the other dictatorial nations.

Is it possible the United States of America will become a nation governed by a dictatorship? The first emperor being Donald Trump.  Usually, the decline in any powerful civilization is long and slow, from decades to hundreds of years. However, what is different in our time, is the almost instantaneous flow of information. Aided by powerful oligarchs like Elon Musk and cunning politician, Donald Trump, voters can be manipulated, misled or misinformed in general elections. Musk has claimed that without his millions and technology, Donald Trump would never have become president.

Comparison

If we compare some of the factors leading a powerful nation, the United States, to decline in power and influence we may see the possibility of the country becoming authoritarian.

Internal instability:  Trump threatening fellow Republicans of being pushed aside for any opposition to his policies. e.g., manipulating the judiciary, threatening the press, attacking and undermining perceived enemies.

Economic Problems: Trumps extreme tariffs on imported products.

Military Over extension:

External Threats: China and Russia

Environmental Challenges: refusal act and accept climate change

Loss of Soft Power: Viewing Trump as incompetent and an enemy to allies

Rise of New Powers: Iran and North Korea

Of the seven factors one cannot accuse Trump of over-extending military power. You could make a case against former administrations, but not against Trump. A decline in modern terms is fast and for now only affects the United States. History has yet to play out; will the United States of America become authoritarian, or will the American people draw back from the edge.

Is It the End?