The founding fathers in colonial America were well versed in Greek, Roman, and European history and government. Based on their knowledge of what succeeded and failed in those early days is how they came up with our form of government.
In light of events today, I recall Khrushchev banging his shoe on the podium screaming that he would bury us from within - sometimes I think that is what is happening.
Rebecca, your articles are interesting - so few of us know our history.