After the fall of the Soviet Union, we as a nation reveled in our triumph, and celebrated the supremacy of capitalism and democracy over communism. We looked to the world and exclaimed that, "we are your Super Power, follow us and everything will be well." And the world looked to us for leadership, allowing us great latitude and providing unprecedented cooperation in the Gulf War. The '90's were a continuation of that theme, with our economic might tripling over the decade, and our influence unparalleled in our nations history. The greatest crisis we had as a nation was whether or not the President was being unfaithful to his wife. At the time that may have seemed important, but it was simply entertainment.
Under the bravado of the '90's, there was a hate that had been boiling for thirty years. We knew about it, but didn't realize the scope of the hate until that September day. As a people we were caught off gaurd and stunned that this could even have been contemplated.
"We're Americans. The good guys! Why the attack?"
The answer to that question could fill volumes, but suffice it to say we were living in our excesses and not seeing the barbarians at the gate. It seems that we are reliving the downfall of every empire, where those outside the walls of the great city plot to destroy it out of jealosy, fear, or power. So, why be an empire? Why be a Super Power? I would rather we would use our power and influence, such as it is anymore, to ensure that no country is considered a Super Power ever again, and to become a member of the international community again.
No, I don't want a single unified world government. I don't think we are mature enough for that, but I don't think we need one country to be the designated police force either. Granted, we would've gone into Afganistan with or without international support, and Iraq was less about being a world policeman and more about Neo-Con wet dreams of a global power play. But with the current crisis in the mideast and the crisis with North Korea, and the impending showdown with China, we seem to be the fall guy when things go wrong.
Being a Super Power has only made us a big target, and it is not what America is all about. America is not about force and power, but about freedom and liberty. I say we become a union again, and leave the empires for the history books.
