[R. Scott]

Nations fall - not as in disappear, but fall from the number one spot.
From the Chin (China) through Babylon (Iraq), Rome (Italy), the Holy Roman Empire (Germany), Great Briton (England) many have had their place in the sun. None have survived with any of their power or glory except in the history books.

[RightWhale]

None have survived with any of their power or glory

That is what is taught in public school. However, we might find, upon reflection, that Rome did not fall at all, but moved. They, the power elite, are still in operation. For a while they were in Constantinople, and later they were in London. Where are they now? Look around.