what destroys empires

My understanding is that it is the upkeep of standing armies that bankrupt civilisations.

Whilst an army can create a source of pillage when it can be maintained, but once it becomes just a form of policing then the writing is on the wall.

While the US will reap some oil windfall from Iraq, it looks like it is falling into the latter category.

Countries like Australia, in similar mode may rape the oil proceeds of East timor but the return will outweigh the good will and then the cost of the military.

Little wonder the Scandinavians can have a welfare system that works and pay for it.

Take that Genghis!