My quick trip to Rome: a reminder

2024 will tell us whether the power of We the People endures in America

Happy New Year, friends!

I just returned from a few days in Rome, where I was reminded of the incredible youth of American democracy, and the fragility — and egotism — of countries that achieve the status of a world power.

The Roman Republic lasted from 509 to 27 BCE. Prior to 509 BC, Rome was a monarchy, which was marked by benevolent kings until a tyra…