Crucial mistakes, calculated and risky assumptions, a willful betrayal of public trust and confidence, a history of inequality and misrepresentation, a debt driven mentality, disjointed efforts to cripple, undermine and demilitarize the most powerful military in the free world; contributors to America's current crisis. I wrote this book not to induce "conspiracy theories," "point fingers," or "publically ridicule" our governmental hierarchy; my intent is to be a voice for the people; a rallying point, a relief valve for the anguish and panic, deep uncertainties, and the emotional topography felt by the citizenry of a troubled nation. I lay before you an open and often frightening record of inconsistencies, half-truths and innuendos; a synthesis of personal experience, news, rumors, and the rapidly shifting perspectives about how bad things are-and how bad they could be. There are roughly three areas that I will explore, -the physical, mental and emotional changes that follow a crisis; -the stigma and shame heaped upon us, the people of the United States as the world loses confidence in our financial, economic, social and domestic prowess; and -the unexpected and unexplainable calmness, clarity, and vigilance birthed out of this chaos. However, before I begin this journey, I must first "exhume" portions of America's sordid and discombobulated past, then link these parts together to forge a chain of events; a rational timeline for discussion. Although this is a lengthy and painstaking task - and one that I certainly do not relish - it is a necessary first step.