U.S. Can Extend Next 250 Years by Avoiding 3 Historic Failures
Updated
Updated · Los Angeles Times · Jun 29
U.S. Can Extend Next 250 Years by Avoiding 3 Historic Failures
2 articles · Updated · Los Angeles Times · Jun 29
Summary
A new analysis argues the U.S. can improve its odds of lasting another 250 years by avoiding three recurring mistakes that helped sink Byzantium, Spain and Britain.
Three warnings anchor the case: tax cuts that weaken state capacity, inequality that shrinks domestic demand and blocks competition, and neglect of universities that erodes technological leadership.
Byzantium is cited as a lesson in fiscally damaging tax breaks, Spain as a case of aristocratic inequality choking industrialization, and Britain as a power that lost its edge after underinvesting in science and engineering education.
The article says stronger government capacity, antitrust enforcement, broader purchasing power and sustained support for higher education are central if the U.S. wants prosperity at its 500th birthday.