"The Anguished Essays” - Contemplation of Sorrow - Horror In Vogue by Augustus Aurelianus Severus

MONTEVIDEO - The lovely captital city of Uruguay

URUGUAY MONTEVIDEO- Rambla de Montevideo - kewego

MONTEVIDEO is the largest city, the capital, and the chief port of Uruguay. It is the only city in the country with a population over 1,000,000. According to Mercer Human Resource Consulting, in 2007 Montevideo provided the highest quality of life in Latin America.
In this fabulous small metropolis, the area generally well known as "Ravine of Montevideo" (RAMBLA DE MONTEVIDEO)- consists of 30 Kilometers of ravine and coast.

The Unseen Benefits from 20th Century American Imperialism

Throughout the history of our beautiful, misguided planet, since the rise of the first predominant political-military power, the various ethnic groups inhabiting the surrounding regions invariably grew resentful of ruthless exploitation, cultural imposition, and merciless abuse. Deeply ingrained acrimony inevitably emerged and unavoidably turned into open hostility vis-à-vis the escalation of tyrannical and excessive measures whereby local elites were either eliminated or assimilated, valuable resources appropriated while the general population were oppressed and enslaved.

These vile patterns of political, social and military manipulation have been documented in a wide variety of historical documents in virtually every continent, ranging from Toltec, Egyptian and Roman Empires into the relatively recent Islamic, Iberian and Northern European Kingdoms of the Renaissance and Neo-Classic periods. Yet, ever since the emergence of the liberal concepts of Individualism and Liberty within the British Empire, at the height of Imperial expansion, sophisticated principles of human rights emerged across its vast domains. Most notably, such principles became so significant within its thirteen North American colonies that, when formal political independence was secured, these united states gradually became not only stronger and wealthier, but also a beacon of Liberty and an inspiration to revolutionaries, thereby emerging as an admired global power of a different sort, with noticeably distinct patterns of dominance.

Unlike its imperial predecessors, the United States of America has avoided exerting direct administration over most regions falling under its sphere of influence, and endeavored to play the role of a benign and detached overseer, while providing significant financial and military assistance without necessarily maintaining actual troops in order to flex muscle to protect its national interests. As outlined by the brilliant eighteenth century military strategist Carl Philipp Gottlieb von Clausewitz (1780 – 1831) – Officer of the Prussian Army, Historian, and Military Strategist – International Politics were previously defined strictly as a natural extension of Military Conflicts, undoubtedly the case of Spanish, Dutch and British colonial might. Yet, the rising American imperialists, from the outset of their active involvement in global politics, have demonstrated a remarkable ability to take such principle even further, whereby international economics and financial preponderance actually become an extension of International Politics thereby expanding the levels of their engagement to reinforce overall supremacy, while also providing collective security.

America’s rising wealth and increased military power invariably further ensured its super power status thereby setting off enormous benefits, but with the cost of unexpected bereavement, due to an intangible glamour that transformed its society into a source of either envy or reproach, and a scapegoat for several global issues. Because it became a target of local resentment, international scrutiny and, ultimately, unprecedented hatred within radical segments of distinct totalitarian states, many Americans were suddenly unable to match their values against an unsavory, newly acquired reputation. In essence, the resulting amalgamation of various levels of international antagonism gradually depreciated America's reputation, thus triggering the onset of its current political and economic decline. Perhaps because of their traditional self-image as "fair citizens" of a classless democracy, Americans were never intended to become any sort of imperial overlords, compelled to frequently bypass their Founding Fathers’ noble principles when dealing with inherently corrupt and authoritarian rulers. As a result, the United States of America has inevitably found itself caught up in a vicious web of international intrigue, suspicion and espionage, the resolution of which required embracing ruthless, arrogant and even sporadically cruel schemes in order to secure fundamentally indispensable political and/or military goals.

Notwithstanding its uncomfortable list of reprehensible deeds, when analyzed under the prism of historical imperialistic behavior, the United States easily emerge as the most liberal, permissive and tolerant of all World Powers; for it contributed, for the most part, to the expeditious development of freer, wealthier and healthier societies within its overall economic space. Moreover, by extending a wide network of financial and military facilities in order to enrich and protect its unexpected empire, the governing polities in Washington DC were required to spend incalculable sums in foreign aid, loans and investment, while also extending a vastly complex defensive umbrella throughout its protectorate, thereby automatically affording the necessary climate of peace and security for the continued socio-economic development of its various national components.

Consequently, as it disbursed vast quantities of resources worldwide, to the point of virtually compromising the soundness of its own economy, the United States of America has successfully deterred (and at times prevented) the advance of totalitarian ideals emanating from the extremities of the political spectrum, encouraged international trade – triggering the globalization of the world economy – and guaranteed our collective liberty and financial welfare.

The inevitability of Latin American Polarization: Brazil versus Venezuela

For any political scientist, economist and historian who may not be entirely familiarized with the dynamics of Latin America’s historical legacy and some of the recent issues staining the rosy pictures of cooperation, friendship, and consensus often publicized in the area’s main capitals, it would have appeared that the region could be on the brink of reaching a respectful level of maturity and might even have resolved some serious issues, challenges and conflicts which have plagued many of its countries for nearly two centuries of self-determination. Yet, I fear that any intellectual “neuter observer” would be rather disappointed with the performance of the majority of Latin administrations upon closer examination. Even taking into account the latest global economic crisis and despite the continued economic development undergone in some nations (most notably Chile, Brazil and Mexico), it is clear that, the traditional ghosts of income disparity, regional rivalry, corrupted politicians, authoritarian “rulers”, along with the persistent threat posed by Drug Lords and terrorist organizations remain looming over Latin America’s horizons.

One would also have thought that the establishment of UNASUR and the increased number of smaller regional blocs, such as MERCOSUL, might seriously represent mature regional endeavors to shed differences aside in order to address some of the most important issues (ranging from trade, energy, fresh water and poverty to mutual defense, regional currency and improved infra-structure). Yet, the more one examines some of the current “noble objectives” in closer scrutiny, the more it becomes evident that Brazil and Venezuela will be found running (or attempting to run) the show; each with a completely distinct political agenda, bound to be deemed irreconcilable in the long run.

In addition, since the main economic and political/military organizations established in the region appear to be rather questionable in light of the fashion whereby Caracas and Brasilia appear to view their intended purposes, the embryo of uncertainty has already emerged. Because, MERCOSUL - formed about 25 years ago - included only four members: Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, while excluding Venezuela, Colombia and Chile, it could be scarcely be considered a fully Regional Pact. Although Venezuela has subsequently applied to join this primarily Southern Cone group, its dubious political intentions vis-à-vis attaining full membership has understandably been prevented by the Legislatures of both Brazil and Paraguay; the Chilean exclusion, clearly an error in light of the health and importance of its economy, was possibly deliberate in light of its long standing disputes with neighboring Argentina and its declared intent to join NAFTA; Colombia’s omission, however, is evident, in view of its close alliance with the United States and insurmountable fiendish stance against Venezuela. As such, because MERCOSUL neither includes nor impacts most of the region’s main economies and because Venezuela is likely to treat MERCOSUL and UNASUR as nearly interchangeable political structures, thereby possibly undermining the both organizations, it seems like additional seeds of discord between Caracas and Brasilia have already been planted.

Yet, there are many other specific factors which appear to highlight the contrasting stance of the two leading Latin American regional powers…

Venezuela has recently established a mini-alliance composed of a growing list of smaller, faithful, and poorer client states (Cuba, Bolivia, Ecuador, Nicaragua and possibly Honduras in the near future) and undoubtedly intends to assume the role of Regional Leading Power. Unlike Cuba during the 20th Century, Venezuela has embraced a relatively more discrete version of Fidel Castro’s revolutionary ideals, currently labeled as “Bolivarian”, but whose ultimate goal is also to spread its radical political-economical ideals throughout the region, thereby transforming Caracas into a 21st Century version of a “Latin Moscow” or “New Havana” of the modern Western Hemisphere…

Brazil, on the other hand, attempting to maintain the self-delusional role of a “Well-Behaved Neighbor” and “Moderate (New) Socialist”, appears to be relatively more discrete in its quest for the role of Latin American Leader. While the “Sleeping Giant” is likely to have a sincere disposition to assist others, its current administration ultimately intends to secure African support and to be perceived by the developed world and the United Nations, as a robust adolescent who has recently reached maturity and is therefore ready to join the Main Group of nations either at the “bottom of a possible G-9” or at least to obtain a permanent seat in the Security Council. Clearly, due to its growing pride and self-delusion, the current administration in Brasilia seems to be determined neither to remain passively watching major global decisions from afar - at a remote UN seat – nor to continue being invited to G-8 meetings merely for having “desert” (using the Brazilian’s president words).

While Breton Woods established the rules for commercial and financial relations among the world's major industrial states in July 1944 thereby establishing the foundations of a healthy western economy for the second half of the 20th Century, the Venezuelan elected dictator appears adamant to reach an equivalent agreement for Latin America today with his plans to establish the Bank of the South (designed to be based in Caracas) in order to allegedly unite the “financial needs” a socialist Latin Brotherhood for the current Millennium. Yet it does not appear to have been substantiated by concrete plans or viable financing for such an elusive Institution; most importantly, I could hardly anticipate any forthcoming believable mechanism to emerge in order to prevent the inevitable series of fraud and misuse of precious resources, which would inevitably surface in the region. Almost certainly, an endless stream of funds and other assets is bound to flow into secrete private accounts of Venezuelan agents entrusted to “finance” electoral campaigns of left-wing candidates across Latin America with the support of La Paz, Quito, Havana and Managua.

Meanwhile the Brazilian and Argentinean presidents seem to be forging ahead with plans to formalize or at least increase the use of local currencies in their bilateral and other regional trade thereby removing the US Dollar as the common monetary unit, allegedly (and officially) on account of their central banks need to strengthen cross-border operations without serious consideration for their historically dramatic fluctuations in the currency markets prior to the current relatively stable financial setting. Interestingly Brazilian exporters have been using the system more than their counterparts in Argentina, which, one might argue, merely reflects Brazilian preference for dealing in their own currency, whereas Argentine businessmen may be more comfortable with dollars than with pesos. However, because Brazil is Argentina’s main trading partner, and because Argentina has repeatedly postponed the full implementation of “local currencies swap” to promote bilateral trade, Brasilia is now threatening Buenos Aires to take action with the WTO for imposing non tariff barriers to trade thereby demonstrating the actual intentions of the Brazilian government which appears to flex muscles utilizing economic tools. In this connection, one should recall that the last Doha round of talks failed when it was very close to a successful conclusion in light of the last minute switch of the Brazilian position on "Protectionism" thereby upsetting not only Argentina but also India, which represents Brasilia’s closest ally in Asia as well as one of the largest importers of Brazilian Ethanol.

As such, either spreading neo-Marxist ideals within a region scarcely prepared to embrace its inevitable totalitarian populist values or promoting questionable ideals of “economic integration” whereas fomenting discord in international forums, Venezuela AND Brazil proceed with alleged "common plans" without any actual regional consensus, each pursuing completely disparate and unrealistic goals in order to be poised, in the long run, to achieve their hidden agendas; thereby rendering most “agreements” between these nations as inevitable sources of significant conflict.

São Paulo City - Brazil's Heart, Hope, and Pride

Nobody could have expected, over 460 years ago, that the tiny remote village named “São Paulo do Piratininga” founded at the margins of Tiete river in the newly establish Portuguese colony in South America was destined to become the greatest, most important indisputable metropolis of the entire region. Yet, in 1711, São Paulo officially became a city, which, in the 19th century, experienced a flourishing economic prosperity, brought about through coffee exports, culminated with the eventual development of a major industrial center by the middle of the 20th, when it bypassed Rio de Janeiro as Brazil’s largest, wealthiest and most diverse metropolis, thereby exploding into not only the quintessential center of the nation’s culture and overall development, but also the Financial capital of Latin America.

Regardless of the nature of the individuals who were enticed to this amazing metropolis - migrants or tourists, workers or students – or their reasons for migrating to its heart, the wonderful city of São Paulo was molded by their dreams in such a fashion as to represent today the shining pride of Brazil’s achievements and expectations for its great future.

A Brazilian Constitutional Monarchy

A Constitutional Monarch would focus on national unity, history and purpose, honoring all its institutions, in order to be poised to remain separate from the Head of State. This would be the role of the Prime Minister - the holder of executive power who, although in charge of His/Her Majesty's Government, would fall under the democratic control of Congress . The sovereign, however, would play a unique role since he/she would provide impartial non-political support vis-à-vis various aspects of public life.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF (RELIGIOUS) OBJECTS VIS-À-VIS THE POWER OF THE MIND VERSUS “FAITH” OR “MIRACLES”

The key to peaceful contentment (as well as the far more important goal of Reducing the quantity and/or scope of Human Conflicts) lies with mankind’s willingness to completely eliminate ALL types/versions of primitive, absurd, hate inspiring mythological sects (a.k.a. “religious faiths) from the fabric (and every aspect) of human societies. An effort which will not be attained until such time when the overwhelming predominance of human IGNORANCE, which renders mankind to blindly engage into a form of psychological voluntary slavery, whereby the “ideological Master” demands absolute obedience (since it emanates from a divine being) and engage into absurd sets of dogmatic beliefs in order to attain “salvation” without the ability or expectation of EVER question any principle or tenet, lest he/she may be deemed blasphemous or – worse – an Infidel!

In addition, because ALL remaining primitive, “mythological sects” (a.k.a. religious institutions) invariably contain fundamentally significant sets of rather DISTINCT (IF not outright opposite) ecclesiastical concepts, “divine dictates or commands”, not to mention the types (and scope) of SINS, all of which representing the KEY to the (real) TRUTH and/or the “righteous path” (often the SOLE path) towards a so-called "salvation", these Sects ultimately provide (in the long run) the “raw material” for a wide variety of antagonizing, irreconcilable positions as stipulated by competing philosophies, often also automatically implying that all other competing religions (and their infidel followers) are either blasphemous or evil!

A deeper significant analysis of current and historical conflicts is bound to stipulate that these fundamental and irreconcilable religious distinctions have been systematically and historically the underlying trigger (openly or concealed) behind the source(s) of most wars across our planet.

Moreover, because during some key time periods (at various locations) of our known History, such religious institutions were either led or influenced by clever, deviant and powerful clerics/priests/imams who were in a position to manipulate the ignorant millions of “faithful believers” (often to accomplish selfish, hidden agendas) vis-à-vis the previously mentioned irreconcilable amalgamation of primitive distinctions, the tragic end result of which often culminated with the incalculable suffering, torture, and/or extermination of thousands (even millions) of innocent victims!

Yet, there are ultra-liberal intellectuals who advocate the idyllic notion whereby "the key to peaceful contentment lies in opening the symbols of the world's religions to everyone" not only reflects exceeding levels of naïveté, but also implicitly adheres and feeds the very archaic institutions responsible to the ignorance, the hatred, and ultimate unhappiness of the masses of whichever culture.

The actual underlying significance behind such views, whereby religious objects would "miraculously" provide the necessary strength for individuals to attain "inner peace" originates rather in an entirely different factor, namely: the Power of the Human Mind. Indeed, although modern science remains unable to fully explain the source of such intangible abilities – despite the never ending flow of amazing discoveries – it is clear that our brains are the true agents which provide the intrinsic capability for anyone to bring to fruition a wide variety of great accomplishments if/when accessing their “inner power” which derives from strong beliefs or convictions (as opposed to “faith” or “miracles”) by successfully utilizing certain "symbols" (often incorrectly associated with iconic artifacts) towards the accomplishment of certain objectives considered extremely hard or nearly impossible.

When a President lacks Composure and Discipline (Translation)

The following text was originally composed – in Portuguese – by Mr. Ubiratan Iorio* - the translation of which was duly authorized by the President of the Brazilian “Clube Militar” located in Rio de Janeiro
Undoubtedly, the current Brazilian President appears to be inept for leading even a Neighborhood Carnival club, since he does not appear to possess either the moral composure or the necessary intellectual background. Indeed, nearly every time this President makes a public appearance – in every speech and in every gesture – it becomes increasingly obvious that he lacks the expected upbringing and most basic education required for any Leader; in spite of the self-delusional claims of his supporters, praising his questionable deeds, that one could scarcely identify anything else as “more democratic” than a “so-called” former machinist being elected to occupy the nation’s most prominent and visible role.

The most recent “show” performed by Lula during Carnival in the “Sambódromo” (a Samba Pavilion) in Rio de Janeiro, whereby the Nation’s Leader distributed condoms to the populace at large, represented a rather sad, distressing, and revolting affair; and because the State Governor along with the hosting city’s Mayor stood side by side their “boss”, they appeared to have been subdued to the role of gloomy servants in attendance of their “ruler”.

Such an event was sad because it appeared as if the Brazilian State were providing “blessings” to popular orgies and cheap sexual intercourse - whereas it might be considered appropriate for the State to operate in an unqualified fashion, under these circumstances, it is quite another matter when the national authorities appear to be encouraging shameful and/or otherwise questionable activities; it was distressing because the President’s conduct flagrantly disregarded the bare minimum pre-requisites for the type of composure expected from any Head of State, who should always at least appear to be attempting to follow protocol; finally, it was revolting because one must necessarily compare this lame “presidential distribution” - allegedly done in full support of the Brazilian Ministry for Health - vis-à-vis the inexcusable appalling conditions which unfortunately plague and prevail most Public Hospitals (designed for attending poor citizens in need of assistance).

While the Brazilian society has been suffering from the serious consequences of a growing Moral Weakness of unprecedented scale, it has the further misfortune of having a Supreme Leader lacking moral composure, and whose questionable deeds provide the people the worst possible example. Most importantly, this most recent disgraceful episode represents yet another evidence – among several previous reproachable events – that the Labor Administration under “Lula” does not appear to have any conception as to how a government should efficiently utilize (limited) public resources, the sole objective of which should always take into account nothing more or less than the Welfare of the Nation.

* The original author is the current Director of the Faculty of Economics at UERJ – State University of Rio de Janeiro

TRUE BLUE BRAZILIANS - The Armed Forces and the Republic

Following its independence from Portugal in 1822 the political entity called the “Empire of Brazil” emerged as a constitutional monarchy led by the Franco-Portuguese lineage of Orleans e Bragança. According to some historians, the premature termination of this promising South American monarchy and the subsequent foundation of the Republic in 1889 came about primarily as a reactionary development following the abolishment of the slavery in 1888. Because the subsequent loss of slave labor invariably cast the final blow to the political (and economical) interests of the existing Oligarchy - the power base of the regime – some of their key members shifted patronage towards the emerging republican movement, which had arisen from within undisciplined factions of the armed forces.

Taking into account the subsequent destabilizing chain of events, particularly the increasing schism between the monarchist and republican factions within the Brazilian Army, on November 15, 1889 the Monarchy was overthrown during a military Coup d’état successfully led by Marshal Deodoro da Fonseca, the nation’s first President. This significant political development not only replaced the country’s system of government but also inescapably altered the very fabric of its political-culture… Because these dramatic events triggered a relatively long period of “order and progress” (the national logo stamped upon the newly created flag), the concept of a “Military coup d’état” became historically and correctly identified with peace, stability and security.

Following this period (called the “New Republic”), the Brazilian nation twice fell into disarray because of international “philosophical contagion” resulting either from dangerous destabilizing trends spilling from its closest neighbors (Argentina’s Peronist movement) or from concealed endeavors by a global Super Power to perpetrate direct political intervention (the USSR’s geo-political aspirations during the 1960’s). Unquestionably, both incidents (actual and/or potential) represented a significant peril to peace and liberty; yet, each threat was duly addressed and controlled, directly or indirectly, by brave Brazilian patriots - in uniform – who did not refrain from taking whatever steps deemed necessary to readily perform their solemn duty, and rescue the Nation from dangerous foreign interference.

Because the current Brazilian government is led by an increasingly dubious administration with socialist inclinations, the national order and integrity appears to be once again endangered; for its primary elected representative (the leader of a questionable political party) has been gradually falling under the influence of Neo-Marxist, Bolivarian alien elements, thereby potentially exposing the Nation to the perilous northerly wind blowing from Caracas.

Consequently, I fear that the time may have arisen for the Brazilian valiant saviors to contemplate yet another rescue, and carry out whatever may be necessary, at any cost, to save the Brazilian nation one more time!

ALTERNATE UNIVERSE - DREAMING OF AN IMPERIAL (ROMANTIC) 21st CENTURY

The absurd, unsuitable, and overwhelming weight of a technological, fast paced existence within any major metropolitan Western center during the 21st Century is nearly intolerable for the few remaining romantic souls who long for the simplicity of life during the early days of the industrial age… Gadgets, circuits, connections and speed not only twist but also infect the human condition by insulting its very nature… Indeed, nearly every issue appears exceedingly disagreeable, distasteful and/or distressing; at best the entire landscape of modern urban society emerge as a rather unappealing experience, which unquestionably triggers or exacerbates the overall sense of “malaise”, fear, and great discomfort afflicting millions of unwitting victims everywhere today…
For those who worship the Past, most events and nearly all issues currently endured by most metropolitan citizens would indubitably have been signficantly assuaged in case the noble Houses of Windsor, Romanov, and Habsburg were still in charge of their respective monarchies today, and had never lost their grip on power (naturally I have deliberately excluded the Prussian Hohenzollerns for trouble would always have emerged in some nefarious fashion from Berlin - if any Kaiser is permitted to consolidate power over the entirety of Germany – as opposed to remaining confined to the much smaller Prussian Kingdom – unless of course inevitable serious “issues” were somehow much earlier addressed during a Major European conflict – a “War of three Emperors between 1870 and 1885 - concluding with the complete defeat of the Prussian forces, as opposed to our historical World War I in 1914). In such an “alternate world” the United Kingdom (along with France under Napoleon III) would have financed and supported the Russian & Austro-Hungarian empires (a Russia where the State Duma would have been permitted to function and an Austria where Archduke Rudolf would have been the Emperor) to defeat Prussia, thus preventing Otto von-Bismarck (who would have been executed) from creating a German state and further militarizing Prussia.

If these majestic Houses had not “fallen from grace” (which categorically would have also included a Orleans & Bragança sitting at the Brazilian Throne at the “Imperial Municipality of the Court – as Rio was once named), the current Islamic threat (rooted upon an insolvable Arab-Israeli conflict) along with the current financial chaos, which has brought our civilization to the brink of bankruptcy, would not have arisen. Indeed, because the 20th century would have been entirely distinct from what we learned from the History books (NO great depression – NO rise of National Socialism – NO independent Middle Eastern or North African states – NO Soviet Union –and a much less prominent USA) there would not have been any splitting of the atom in the 1940’s, nor any space travel in the 1950’s, transistors would not have been invented around 1960, while personal computers (let alone the internet) would have remained in the realm of Science Fiction...

Rather, we would, most likely, have been accustomed to pleasant, comfortable two-day long crossings of the Atlantic aboard magnificently furnished floating Airships from “Lufthansa, British Caledonian or Pan American; using elegant Rail Express Services to travel inside our respective continents; utilizing gracious metallic telephones that require Human Operators to make connections; and listening to Radio Broadcasts while sending one another telegrams...

If my dream scenario were to have come to fruition, Planet Earth would have been a much more agreeable place in 2009: much more peaceful, elegant and civilized than what we have in its stead…

A HISTORIC TIME FOR HOPE FROM AMERICA FOR THE WORLD – BARACK OBAMA

On the Eve of History, I pay tribute to the next President of the United States of America: Mr. Barack Hussein Obama II, whose election to the highest office of the land appears to have opened new doors for the countless disenfranchised masses of the World, while making new connections through innate perceptions…

In addition to his assertive, self-controlled nature, inherent inclination to Reason & Compassion along with stimulating ideals, President Obama also appears to possess a certain ethereal quality which automatically mollifies everyone, including some of the enemies and opponents of our nation - even if after a fashion, and for a limited amount of time...

Indeed, by electing Mr. Obama these United States have undergone significant transformation, and acquired a brand new “face” while reviving an old source of “inspiration & ideals", and rendering the Land of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and JFK once again worthy of global respect & admiration!

The ideal approach for the inhabitants of our small blue planet at this rather significant point in World History, would be the collective adoption of minor steps towards “hope”… If only mankind could take advantage of the potential for monumental changes, which suddenly appeared lying ahead of us, ever since the astounding results of the 2008 American Presidential election were announced, humanity might surprise itself as well as the rest of the Universe...

Provided Mr. Obama "does the walk" as magnificently well as he articulates so many noble ideals, provided all Americans make a collective effort, and truly endeavor to contribute, by joining this ethereal wave of Hope hovering upon a blue horizon, Martin Luther King’s and John Lennon’s dreams might even materialize…

If all of us could only give Mr. Obama the benefit of a doubt, for a sustained period of time, mankind might miraculously move another small step forward and planet Earth could even become a slightly better place...

THE BATTLE OF TWO DEMONS – PALESTINIANS vs. ISRAELIS

Any individual familiar with my views on matters involving religious extremism (particularly fundamentalist/orthodox/evangelical Muslims, Jews & Christians) will surely confirm that I would never consider defending or sponsoring of the Palestinian cause; yet, undoubtedly brain washed by BBC America’s biased reports regarding the brutal (albeit it could be viewed as occasionally necessary) Israeli response to Palestinian missile attacks, I must concede that the Israeli reaction included acts must be deemed “excessive”.

On the other hand, bearing in mind the classical psychological case study whereby some abused children become psychopathic abusers themselves when they reach adulthood, one should view the behavior of Israeli (vis-à-vis the massacre of Jews during the Second World War) under the same light… Indeed, because the Jewish segment in Palestine has been oppressing the Palestinian and occupying some of their claimed lands for about six decades, I must partially “empathize” with those who classify Hamas missile attacks from into Israel as a justified act of self-defense (of oppressed peoples towards their invaders).




Yet, the bottom line is quite simple: both sides are to blame as both elements consist of extremely intolerant individuals who will never, EVER accept any settlement and thereby impose upon the world the nefarious spill-over consequences of their never-ending, pointless, irreconcilable struggle. The issue turns even more distressing, when one takes into account that the main underlying reason for their endless conflict is the ever imposing, always terrifying and unquestionably ridiculous & irrelevant issue of religion…

Consequently, because about 60% of Islamic and Jewish elements are intolerant religious militant, as far as I am concerned, their self-destruction in endless bloody warfare (Mohamed versus Moses) should be henceforth ignored by the rest of the world…

If the Sensible, Reasonable peoples of Earth were to eliminate ALL religions TOMORROW, by NEXT WEEK this planet would move significantly closer towards World Peace.

A Tribute for a Great Brazilian Hero: General Osório, the Marquis of Herval – Bicentennial Celebration

The Brazilian Nation proudly celebrates in 2008, with great affection, the birth of one of its most memorable sons - the esteemed Marquis of Herval (born in May 10, 1808, at his Mother’s Ranch in the state of Rio Grande do Sul), who would grow to mark its place in the nation’s History as General Osório.

All Brazilian patriots, who conscientiously qualm about the future of their country in times of “great peril”, would undoubtedly honor the historical significance of valiant individuals whose lives and examples had profound influence upon the formation of their very character. Consequently, I feel compelled to wholeheartedly join my compatriots by warmly remembering this greatest of all heroes, who represents a Models of Courage and Valor whose life-time devotion is responsible not only for the strengthening of its institutions, but for contributing for the creation of the national identity!

After spending his entire youth in dedication for the service of his country, the Marquis’ greatest contributions transpired at an advanced age, when courage and valor became legendary among Brazilian and allied soldiers during the War of the Triple Alliance, a.k.a. Paraguayan War (whereby Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. Defeated Paraguay - 1864-1870).

The example of this great Brazilian enhances the absence of wisdom and patriotism noteworthy in the deplorable state of the current Brazilian political arena, where corruption, deception and weakness abounds vis-à-vis the dangerous ideological menace posed by Venezuela and Cuba, whose increasing influence in Brasilia not only alarms the nation but jeopardizes the national honor, peace and integrity…

Yet, echoing the views of General Gilberto Baborsa de Figueiredo,

I trust that Brazil is much bigger than the feeble entity represented by “these people without patriotism, honor, and character” that currently infest Brazilian politics today. Similar to this illustrious general, I firmly believe in the capacity of people to react against great adversity, as already demonstrated in diverse episodes of our history. Although we believe that the rule of law, along with the existing democratic mechanisms should enable Brazilians to revert this perverse situation, because Brazil deserves our collective faith in its future, it also demands close monitoring!

THE RISE & FALL OF DOMINANT GLOBAL POWERS

According to ancient historical records, Sumer (located in southern Mesopotamia – a.k.a. the Cradle of civilization) is generally recognized as the earliest nation which successfully assumed a hegemonic position on Earth for a significant period of time. The Sumerians, however, were in due course eliminated by their exceedingly more powerful northern neighbors in Assyria, which, along with its successors in Babylon contested Egypt for role of super power for several decades. Likewise, these were replaced by Persia which ruled the overwhelming majority of all recognized territories of the era for quite some time. Yet, partly due to their inability to eliminate opposition and fully control all of the emerging Greek states, the Persians were eventually succeeded by the glorious the Roman Empire as the global dominant power; such prominent status became uncontested only after their successful elimination of Carthage during the Second Punic War; after which Rome hold sway over the entire “known world” for nearly seven centuries (an achievement which none of its successors has been, so far, capable of emulating).

With the fall of the Roman Empire, the (Christian) Byzantine and ultimately its successor (Islamic) Ottoman Empire became the commanding ruler of Western Civilization in Constantinople (now Istanbul); thus becoming the sole shining beacon of knowledge, culture and sophistication for centuries (west of a far remote, isolated China) until the emergence Islamic Caliphates of Cordoba and Baghdad. Together, these Islamic Super Powers (standing in sharp contrast with its modern counterpart) upheld and further developed all knowledge rescued from a brutalized Medieval Europe, which had regressed into the darkest pits of barbarism under the powerful grip of dogmatic catholic oppression.

Due to the influence of its progressive neighbors in Cordoba, Portugal eventually come to light as a major Maritime Power, often perceived as the first sign of a re-emerging Europe after centuries of Medieval “darkness”, the bold, adventures Portuguese, the first European navigators to venture beyond the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean and circumventing the African continent, also epitomize the earliest signs of independent thought, thus laying the foundations of a very long, valiant struggle of Science and “Reason” against the dogmatic religious intolerance of the oppressive catholic church…

With the upsurge of the Italian Renaissance and the following Neo-Classical era, the world witnessed the rise of Spain and France as the prevailing Sovereign States on planet Earth, despite the remaining nefarious influence of the Catholic Church in both royal courts at Madrid and Paris. Due to the efforts and sacrifices of many heroes, the Spanish and French explorers were capable to start disseminating relatively free artistic marvels, early scientific discovery and even the some of the earliest examples in Freedom of Expression (a quintessential western trait), while at the same time plundering the resources and victimizing the natives of the vast new territories in order to solidify their role of Dominant World Powers.

At the close of the Seventeenth Century, following a long, bloody epoch of religious conflicts, the development of Political Philosophy along the concept of “Liberty” enabled the British Empire to surface as the third Global Super Power (following Rome & Spain). Despite its inevitable blunders in terms of socio-economic exploitation, the relatively benign British Imperialism along with a significantly less intolerant Anglican church, spread the seeds of “freedom” and “representative government” whereas establishing the foundation for a world where Slavery became illegal (1806).

Similar to its historical predecessors, at the dawn of the Twentieth Century, the gradual decline of Great Britain as the World’s main power was further exacerbated, notwithstanding its enormous wealth, naval force, and sizable colonial territories. Yet the highly sophisticated British ruling classes were self-delusional in their inability to recognize the upcoming downfall until compelled to face reality, immediately after the Great War (1914-18), given the overwhelming losses sustained and subsequent economic deterioration.
As a result of direct assistance from the United States of America, which had been gradually flexing muscles in the background since the 1870’s, the United Kingdom managed to avoid financial melt-down; but was rapidly replaced as Global Leader by its very economic-military rescuers, notwithstanding the American refusal to partake in the Versailles Peace Treaty of 1919. Nevertheless, Washington’s newly enhanced global status was soon diluted by the emergence of Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in 1945, when the American government was compelled to share such prominent role with its “former allies” after their combined victory against the Axis Powers.

Although the former Soviet Union and the United States ruled supreme during most of the previous century, analogous to their historical predecessors, both nations inevitably witnessed their decline, in spite of opposing ideologies. Whereas the USSR suddenly crumbled in 1991, when their “union” disintegrated and their “colonies” were lost, the USA’s fall from grace has been significantly more gradual. Yet, regardless of a brief period of “revival” during the Reagan & Clinton years, I daresay that the tragic historical events that transpired on September 11, 2001 are bound to be eventually identified by future historians as the official benchmark closing the “Era of American Predominance”.
Nearly identical to the backstage upsurge of North America during the late Nineteenth century, in “copy-cat” format, the People’s Republic of China appears to be “setting the foundations” to make its claim in the prominent role of World Super Power, as it has been aggressively poising itself as the next Global Leader – yet, I daresay the Chinese Communist Party does not seem to be moving along in the same discrete fashion as its predecessor, exactly one century ago.

THE BRAZILIAN COUP D’ETAT OF 1964

The 1964 Brazilian coup d'état was conducted by the Brazilian military in late March 1964 against President João Goulart, who had recently succeed the allegedly deranged, democratically elected Jânio Quadros (a.k.a. Jango) in 1963 (according to some sources, Mr. Goulart resigned due to reasons of “Force Majeure”).
Photo: João Goulart


The entire ordeal really started in 1963 when Military forces (army/navy/air force) “persuaded” Jango into a compromise, with the congress, whereby the presidential powers would be reduced through the approval of a constitutional amendment changing Brazil into a parliamentary democracy with Jango as a weakened head of state. Yet, Mr. Quadros appears to have outmaneuvered the Brazilian military by re-instating the presidential system by calling a “National Referendum”.


The crux of the issue lies in the fact that Jango, in all fairness to the upper-level, right wing military elements of the time, was undoubtedly a “closet” socialist during the height of the cold war, around the time of the Cuban missile crises. In fact, Jango was politically isolated, in view of his tragic misjudgment (in fact, also a series of contradictory missteps) of conducting a completely independent (and potentially dangerous) foreign policy. Because he openly criticized the Bay of Pigs invasion by the US, while at the same time also (openly) criticizing the Cuban regime of Fidel Castro during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Mr. Quadros appeared misleading to BOTH Washington and Moscow! Such naïveté, during a time when the Bi-Polar Geo-political game was on the brink of another World War, along with the pending Domino theory suggesting that all Latin American countries would fall one after another in case Brazil followed Cuba. In a continues attempt to be fair towards all the parties involved (the US administration, NATO, and the upper echelon of the Brazilian Military), I must concur with this point of view, given the typical, devious stratagems which the KGB (under advisement of the Soviet politburo) was capable of accomplishing.

The coup thrust Brazil into a military dictatorship lasting until the election of Tancredo Neves in 1985.

A Soviet Earth (in an Alternate Universe) - Another Conjecture

Although many Brazilian citizens may disagree, I am convinced that, in the event the Brazilian military (with CIA support) had NOT interfered in 1964, Mr. Quadros or any eventual successor would invariably have followed the tragic “Cuban Path” and have fallen into the Neo-Trotskyite web of espionage, disinformation, and deceptions set up by the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (with the complete, unwavering support of the Brazilian Communist Party).
Furthermore, although Brazil was scarcely anything more significant than a large pawn within the context of the Global Geo-Political arena where the Cold War was unfolding, during the early and middle portions of the Twentieth Century, if the USSR had successfully secured Brazil’s admission into the Eastern Bloc during the 1960’s, World History would have unfolded rather differently… Following the installation of the Brazilian Communist Party in Brasilia, where an enormous Soviet Friendship Center (comprising a Cultural Mission, a KGB Office and a huge Soviet Embassy), all of South America would have turned red within Geo-political strategy maps across the planet; thereby enhancing the power, wealth and influence which Moscow would certainly utilize to further expand its totalitarian grip into all of Africa and most of Asia.

Quite possibly, in another parallel universe where such events DID take place, the United States, Canada and decreasing number of Western-European allies would inevitably become increasingly isolated, poorer, and (possibly also) unable to secure access to middle eastern oil fields. As a result, such unfortunate alternate set of developments, would make it nearly impossible for the decaying NATO members to either to provide the grounds for any “Technological Revolution” (during the 1980-90’s) or to continue matching increased Soviet expenditures in areas ranging from Weapon’s Research & Development, Space Exploration, Espionage, and even Industrial Productivity.

In case the vastness of the MULTIVERSE happens to contain an Alternate Universe where such an unfortunate version of Planet Earth exists, the (former) COMECON Nations (Council for Mutual Economic Assistance) would not only exist in 2008, but its map would also comprise the vast majority of the planet's land mass; representing a world where its oppressed, monitored and ideologically correct inhabitants would “happily” co-exist in a conflict-free Soviet Domain; under such conditions, in the event a skirmish or civil commotion were to emerge anywhere, there would not have been any Network (legally) broadcasting its occurrence in "Latest News Updates", and any “disgruntled” individuals caught “spreading slanders” Against the "United Socialist Front" (or COMECON) would surely be targeted for a speedy enrollment into any of the several "Freedom Psychiatric Centers", conveniently located every where across the globe to serve mankind...

ACTUAL HISTORICAL REFERENCE:
The Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (1949–1991). It represented an economic pact composed of Communist States - the military equivalent of the Warsaw Pact