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Replying in this manner gets very tedious very quickly. After this you're on your own unless you condense things a bit.

Originally Posted by El Blanco

Likely. Nothing is inevitable. A lot can happen over a century. What if the Cantonese become nationalistic? What if Tibet's freedom becomes a major issue in the UN?

A lot can happen. Cantonese becoming nationalistic? They already are. HK people consider themselves different and even more civilized than Mainland Chinese. Those in power in HK are in Beijing's back pocket. Tibet's freedom aready was a big issue - over and done. People are tired of that and Lollapalooza is over.

What about India and Russia's role in all this. One is just emerging as a major economic power. The other is spiraling into anarchy.

This isn't about India or Russia. What about Canada's role? Who cares?

Ya, thats the official government position

Go to China and speak with the locals. The majority of them feel exactly this way. Many Chinese are either completely apathetic or oblivious to what goes on in their Government. They don't give a rat's ass about politics. Ask about China's future however and watch their eyes beam. "This century belongs to China."

Dude, we've gove through two constitutions, a full blown Civil War and a whole bunch of armed rebellions. No matter what Rush Limbaugh and Michael Moore want us to believe, we'll weather this.

Perhaps. Regardless, you're not unified and those who are rest on their laurels.

Hey, buddy, feel free to go fuck yourself.

Struck a nerve, huh?

I don't get it? They buy our television shows, our music, our movies and a whole other shitload of parts of our pop culture. There's obvously something there.

I think you mean pirate your media and pop culture. The kids think it's cool. But they still think they're better than you.

Assuming they'll know what to do when they get there.

What? I can't tell if this is irony, arrogance, or ignorance. Please advise.

I don't hear Brumhilda warming up quite yet. Remember, the US is different from the vast majority of superpowers that have existed. Our neighbors are our best friends and trading partners, we are damn near impossible to invade, and we can dominate another nation without firing a shot. To say the time is up is way too premature.

I didn't say it's up. I said in 50-100 years it will be up.

Thats why the US has that bargaining chip.

Then be prepared to gamble.

Not likely

umm ok

They'll be patient.

Perhaps. China is all about patience. They know they will conquer. It's their destiny.

If this were the Apollo, there would be a clown with a hook right about now.

Indeed! Thank heavens you were up next to save the show with that one!