First published 2020
George Friedman examines the United States through the lens of historical patterns to forecast the turbulent decade ahead. The geopolitical analyst identifies two major cycles that have shaped American development: an eighty-year institutional cycle marked by the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and World War II, and a fifty-year socio-economic cycle that created industrial classes, baby boomers, and the middle class. Both cycles converge in the late 2020s, setting the stage for dramatic transformation. Friedman predicts significant changes to federal government structure, marriage and social contracts, corporate organization, and cultural norms responding to increased longevity. While the nation will face upheaval and potential conflict during this transition, Friedman argues these challenges will ultimately forge greater American strength and global influence. His analysis covers domestic restructuring and international positioning as foundational systems undergo fundamental shifts.
Genres: history, american, political-science, non-fiction, 21st-century, current-affairs, american-history
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: forecast, social-commentary
Setting: United States
Period: 2020s
256 pages · Paperback · Dday Gen Adult