Saw this article in the NYTimes a few weeks ago, but here it is at a place that doesn't require an account/sign-in to get to the damned thing. Thanks to darkeros for the link.

Summary: A terrorist attack on a Roman port did more than rally the population; It led to the rise of executive power, special interests, corruption and the ultimate dissolution of the empire. Pirates of the Mediterranean

Remember how those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it? Watch out, America. Your reversion to power over danger may well come back to bite you in the ass.

--------------------------------
Meme to come later, when I have time to sift through my mp3's.