John, America was "Great" because it was a largely empty continent which was fresh for being populated at the right time by industrialisation by people coming from countries in a more advanced state than the natives were in. This is not because of some innate superiority but simply by the accident that is history. and SK The World is a depressing place in the end. We die and that is the end. Cheer up and be brave and make the best of it while you can. Stop believing in fairies. In short, grow up and be strong all you people of religion. Whichever deluded childishness you follow.