The USA is the only superpower on Earth. America’s might is staggering; its hegemony seems unshakable. But wasn’t there once a great Roman Empire—the most powerful in the world? Europe, Asia, and Africa shuddered at the marching of its legions; science and art flourished. Then came rude, ignorant barbarians who destroyed Rome and built their own civilization—higher and better. This historical lesson was well learned by President Aleksandr Krechet and his allies, who carry out the difficult work of reviving Russia—something that the overseas Empire clearly resents.