[GOP_1900AD]

Let us consider this within the context of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The area currently encompassed by the SCO is oddly similar to the area encompassed by the Mongol Empire / Yuan Dynasty at its peak. The SCO's mandarins are accomplished men and have studied their history. Whereas, the Khannate was a tributary system, wherein the Russians and other Eastern Slavic and Central Asian peoples were clearly second class subjects, this newer version boasts equality of all involved parties.

This newer version also plays from the strengths of its members - Russia brings commodity wealth, an advanced world smashing military, and a certain style of play which is quite useful in dealing with Europe and North America - China brings industrial and technological might, a population of over 1 billion, money savvy, and a way of fighting that will prove an enigma to the West.

This new Empire is in its earliest infancy - most in the West cannot comprehend its ways let alone its mere existence. God help us.

[GOP_1900AD]

Disclosure - I am a descendent of both some of the Western Slavs who fought the Mongols, as well as a descendent of some of the Eastern Slavs and hence, the Mongols.

[maui_hawaii]

Let us put it this way...this is how the old style emperors operated too.

They would decree whatever is 'theirs' and hence colonization would take place...

Anyone who argued was screwed.

Check out my new tag line...

[Alamo-Girl]

Thanks for the ping!