Excellent question and great research.
Just 6 letters is a big part of the answer - FDR & LBJ.
Eventually, people get tired of the abuse and wipe out the politicians. The cycle starts again. The United States last cleaned the slate in the late 1700s.
Well the first major downfall started in '14, '1914 that is. That's the date of infamy when our politicians gave control over US money to a foreign entity called the "Federal Express."
Remember also, that original Reps and Sens worked 2 weeks per year, no remuneration save travel expenses. Now we have a worthless political class that needs to create work for itself so it can stay in power and cash nice paychecks.
Hence, we not only have no freedom left, but we pay dearly for the privilege.
Well the first major downfall started in '14, '1914 that is. That's the date of infamy when our politicians gave control over US money to a foreign entity called the "Federal Express."
Remember also, that original Reps and Sens worked 2 weeks per year, no remuneration save travel expenses. Now we have a worthless political class that needs to create work for itself so it can stay in power and cash nice paychecks.
Hence, we not only have no freedom left, but we pay dearly for the privilege.
Socialism
Well said.
To answer your question, I'd say "we" the part of the population that votes regularly, have put to much effort into defeating the "opponent" parties and too little effort electing honest men and women.
"What the hell happened?"
A tremendous change in the standard of living for one thing. Look at life expectancy for one.