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Obama's New Brazil and LatAm Policy: Too Close to Bush for Comfort PDF Print E-mail
2008 - September 2008
Written by Tom Barry   
Thursday, 04 September 2008 18:42

Barack Obama To frame his proposed Latin America policy, Barack Obama is using the "Four Freedoms" vision of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, which Obama referred to in his "Renewing U.S. Leadership in the Americas" speech to the Cuban American National Foundation in Miami on May 23, 2008.

As World War II overtook Europe and was about to engulf the United States, President Roosevelt delivered a speech on January 6, 1941m that envisioned a post-war world "founded upon four essential freedoms" - political freedom, religious freedom, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.

Obama's reference to FDR is a welcome way to begin revamping Latin American-U.S. relations. Under FDR's leadership, hemispheric relations improved considerably in the 1930s as the United States brought to a close an era characterized since the 1890s by direct military intervention and occupation in Caribbean Basin nations.

Obama chose to highlight an FDR speech delivered on the eve of U.S. entrance into World War II, but a more appropriate and helpful reference might have been FDR's 1933 inaugural speech when he launched his good neighbor policy. The good neighbor principles of "mutual respect," "a spirit of cooperation," and "self-determination" would offer a much-needed antidote to the Bush foreign policy of arrogance and power. These principles are especially relevant to U.S. relations with Latin America.

To a large extent, the responsibility for ensuring the four freedoms in Latin America falls not on the United States but on Latin American and Caribbean countries themselves. Too often in the past, U.S. promises of supporting "freedom" and development in the region have proved self-serving and have obstructed the region's own development.

There's no doubt that there were major shortcomings and inconsistencies in FDR's good neighbor policy. But the ethics that defined the policy - respecting one's neighbor and oneself, cooperating to solve common problems, and letting neighbors determine their own development - should once again be embraced by the U.S. government. A renewed and updated good neighbor policy would go a long way toward fostering political and economic development in the region.

In its founding document, Progressives for Obama stated: "We need to return to the Good Neighbor policies of Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s, which rejected Yankee military intervention and accepted Mexico's right to nationalize its oil in the face of industry opposition."

Obama certainly recognizes the need for a dramatic change in U.S. policy in Latin America. "It's time for a new alliance of the Americas," he said. "After eight years of the failed policies of the past, we need new leadership for the future. After decades pressing for top-down reform, we need an agenda that advances democracy, security, and opportunity from the bottom up. So my policy toward the Americas will be guided by the simple principle that what's good for the people of the Americas is good for the United States."

While talk of alliances and "bottom-up" politics is certainly welcome, it falls short of a commitment to self-determination and mutual respect. At the same time that Obama was promoting an alliance and partnership, he signaled that the alliance would likely be only with some countries - including Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil - while other nations that have embraced left-center politics - including Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Bolivia, and Ecuador - would probably not be members of his "new alliance of the Americas."

Commenting on Obama's foreign policy vision for Latin America, Forrest Hylton, who has written books on Bolivia and Colombia, said, "If ever there was a moment to rethink U.S. policy toward Latin America before it's too late, so to speak, it would be now. Now would be the time to introduce something like a revamped version of the good neighbor policy.

But instead, when Obama all but explicitly poses the question of who lost Latin America, he answers his question with a series of right-wing positions that are, let's say, more conservative than the Council on Foreign Relations, which represents establishment thinking on U.S. foreign policy."

Clearly Obama is still learning about Latin America, a region to which he has never traveled. He has labeled his Latin America policy "A New Partnership for the Americas." While this certainly represents a rhetorical break with the long tradition of hegemonic politics, Obama faces many challenges if the United States is to win respect as a regional partner.

As president, Obama wouldn't be expected to praise or support governments and people's movements with which the U.S. government has major differences, but he will need to treat them as sovereign nations that have the right to set their own course.

His attempt to win political points in his speech to the Cuban American National Foundation in Miami with his critiques of Venezuela and Cuba wasn't an auspicious start to his plan to establish a new regional alliance or partnership.

The speech's ideological focus on "libertad" or freedom echoed the Bush administration's own highly charged rhetoric about political freedom and did little to distinguish Obama's case for "new leadership." A commitment to mutual respect, self-determination, and cooperation would take Obama much further in forging an Americas partnership.

Tom Barry directs the TransBorder Project of the Americas Policy Program (www.americaspolicy.org) at the Center for International Policy in Washington, DC.



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Comments (190)Add Comment
"There's no doubt that there were major shortcomings and inconsistencies in FDR's good neighbor policy"
written by ch.c., September 04, 2008
In my opinion the biggest shortcoming is now RECIPROCITY !

Emerging nations are far more closed than developing nations, but they expect developed nations to be more open that they already are.

Emerging nations all want to export to developed nations, but are unwilling to even develop their own relations.
Simple examples :
- Chinese goods are more restricted in Russia, India, Brazil, Mexico than Chinese goods sold in developed nations.
Yesssssss white Chinese goods (appliances) and textiles are more expensive and restricted in the counbtries stated above than in developed countries.
- China, Russia, India, Brazil, Mexico, Thailand, Taiwan all have huge
trade surplus with developed nations but are unwilling to open more to developed nations goods such as cars/trucks. Because to sell cars in these countries they must be locally produced by foreign companies or subject to HEAVY import taxes !

Using this not so clever reasoning, developed nations should therefore tell Brazil (for example)should you wish to sell ethanol in developed nations, the ethanol mills should be built in developed nations using your money not ours.
And you are free to produce sugarcane where you want, in Brazil or not, since sugarcane production will also to be financed by your money....not ours.

If you dont like the ethanol example, then you should understand we dont like either your worthless and baseless theories.

Another simple example is the Rolex/BMW/Mercedes HUGHE imports taxes.
YOUR theory says normal because it is a tax on luxury goods.
No problem but only as long as your luxury condos and mansaos costing many times the prices of Rolex/BMW/Mercedes are taxed the same as your luxury imports.
And why are your semi-precious stones, some costing more than foreign luxury goods, not taxed the same as your imported luxury goods costing less ??????

Wellll cheaters and liars always cheat and lie !
And the BRIC nations excel at this game.
Therefore dont be surprised that you are shooting at your own goals one way or the other. Developed nations will even help you in doing so.
Idiots dont even understand the game of clever people.
That is the reason why an idiot cant see the obvious.
As I said once ; just ask a Brazilian idiot how equals 2 PLUS 2 !
He will answer 5 and says .......every idiot in Brazil knows this !!!!!
Even Lula and his gangs....Alencar/Mantega/Amorim/Minc/Dirceu and 100 % of your politicians are sure of their basic maths.
Except that they are hurting you the most because when you ask them how much equals 70 % of US$ 300 billion, all will come up with 180 billion and tell you "just look at our federal annual budget, this is how we handle our expertise in maths and economic finances !!!!!"





smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif
Once Again
written by Ric, September 05, 2008
A couple of off-handed references to Bush foreign policy in this article don´t seem to justify the title.

Obviously the comfort zone referred to in the title is that of the author.

However it´s wonderful to read stuff to the left of even Obama. Especially when "achando ruim" is an indication that the writer knows that things may not, almost certainly will not, go his way. Toma ti.
We Should be taslking about the US foreign policy of a John McCain administration.
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 05, 2008
Since Barack Obama is going to lose the presidential election in November 2008 it would be more interesting to discuss what is going to be the US foreign policy of a John McCain administration regarding South America.

Talking about a Barack Obama policy it would be a waste of time.

.
...
written by Ric, September 05, 2008
It certainly looks like you are correct.

Don Imus also believes that McCain will win.

A look at Michelle´s face during her husband´s acceptance speech also gives me the impression that the Obamas know it. She is an accomplished person but not a pro politician nor a poker player. The expressions were a definite tell.
one to think about
written by Forrest Allen Brown, September 05, 2008
when Mc wins
1 year later he dies .

that would put a lady in the P slot
and would not the speaker of the house
be her VP

what a cat fight that would be
where would we put the litter box
...
written by Ric, September 05, 2008
Not sure that Pelosi would be the VP, only the next in line until the VP spot was filled by the president and confirmed by congress.
RIC
written by Forrest Allen Brown, September 05, 2008
yea but would that not be a fight
to remember

i would go for paul that would piss them all off

pelosi and boxer , clinton all dems demanding that she chose one of them

just something to think about after all
he is 26.280 days old
that is 37.843.2 munits
acoriding to brazilian standardes he should have died

8.456 days ago
Explanation requested..
written by dnbaiacu, September 06, 2008
Since Barack Obama is going to lose the presidential election in November 2008 it would be more interesting to discuss what is going to be the US foreign policy of a John McCain administration regarding South America.


I would LOVE a decent scenario of how McCain has even a remote chance of winning. It could happen . But the sense it would make could only be to cause civil unrest and divide the country. Unless that is the TRUE intent.
Just about EVERYTHING is being STAGED in favor of Obama through the media. And have we not forgotten that the media is corporate controlled with strong government connections.
McCain winning would be the absolute worse waste money all of this time. And who is REALLY pulling the strings is not THAT stupid.
...
written by observer, September 06, 2008
Ralph Nader could sneak up the middle and win smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif
Hmmm....
written by Thaddeus Blanchette, September 06, 2008
At this point, I'd say it's too close to call.

I think a lot hinges on McCain's Veep pick. He just clearly singled to everyone that he thinks the far-right agenda is indeed sacrosanct and a women's issue, to boot. I think a lot of democrat Hilary voters who might of been seduced by McCain are now not going to be. In fact, given his Veep, they're now going to see him as the anti-christ.

I think the REAL deal-maker on this election is not the American people, but that segment of the American uber-bourgeoisie that I like to think of as "the intelligent imperialists". These folks gave the unilateralists their shot and saw it blow up in their faces. The big question now is, do they feel like risking the rebirth of Rooseveltian liberalism, or do they think it's better to go into the forseeable future with a party that firmly believes The Final Days are just around the corner and want to turn the country into an evangelical Christian version of Iran?

One of the factors that's going to weigh heavy on their minds is the fact that the Republican social policy and war on terrorism is increasingly creating large contradictions in the American economy and - what's worse - in the ability of the States to reproduce its hegemony over the long term. Fanatical anti-immigrationism means no more brain drain in the States' favor. Promoting 19th century family structures as viable for today's day and age creates an ever-more stressed out working class. Transforming the U.S. volunteer military, designed for rapid, low cost conflicts, into a permanent colonial peace force strains the country's international relations and will ultimately (as in almosy all conflicts of this source) begin to destroy it as a viable figting machine. Acceptance of torture and its integration as a permanent part of the U.S. international strategy makes the country look like fools (as everyone knows that torture is a piss-poor way of getting info) and utterly ruins its moral ground.

In other words, the current Republican strategy for dealing with the 21st century is piling up contradictions at a rate quicker than at any point in American history. Things only look good to the average Republican man in the street because the U.S. has a huge accumulation of social, political and economic capital and even the worst series of presidents in the world would take several decades of f**king things up before Americans were really looking at a big, black hole in their future. But I think that there's a goodly slice of the American bourgeoisie that realizes that a more "light" form of empire would probably gain better results and make the whole thing more viable, longer.

I think, perhaps, maybe, that the Republicans may just have boxed themselves in on this one - something that has happened quite alot in the history of the U.S. whenever a party's radicals outstrips public opinion.

Of course, the Bush clique could just go ahead and steal the damned election anyhow. Lord knows they'll try. But if the smart imperialists come down on Obama's side, I think that such a tactic might actually backfire on the G.O.P. this time.

These GOP boys and girls have been listening to themselves for too long and they've begun to believe their own propaganda. But as one of the founders of their party once said: "You can fool some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time, but you can't fool all the people all of the time".

Come November, we'll see just how many Americans are fooled.
BTW...
written by Thaddeus Blanchette, September 06, 2008
This is why I think the author's take on things is utopian. Neither of the two parties sees Latin America as anything but the U.S.' backyard.

My wife and I were talking the other day about this and we actually think McCain might be better for Brazil. Historically, Brazil has always done very well when the world's hegemonic powers are distracted elsewhere and these last 8 years bear that tendency out. A McCain presidency will be increasingly concerned with the Middle East bear trap and will probably result in Brazil getting much more wiggle room than normal. An Obama presidency will be more of a return to business as usual, velvet glove, iron hand style.

One thing I see weighing in favor of an Obama victory: the dollar is beginning to go up. I don't think the world's biggest capitalists would be so sanguine about the U.S. economy if they felt that they were looking at 4-8 more years if the same stuff they've seen under Bush. And where the big money goes, the little peoples' votes usually follow.
...
written by dnbaiacu, September 06, 2008
I care not what puppet is placed on the throne of england to rule the empire. The man who controls britain's money supply controls the British Empire and I control the British money supply" Nathan Mayer Rothschild 1777 1836


Same rules apply. This is no real election with the people having a real choice
Of course, the Bush clique could just go ahead and steal the damned election anyhow.


In the end this can and will be done. But the American public at large is being seduced enough for the "powers that be" to not have to go through such lengths.
Is there a real choice when Clinton , McCain and Obama are all CFR members????
Again, civil unrest in the U.S and possibly abroad if Obama DOESN"T win. Now if everything behind the Democratic show and the media is banking on that scenario,,that would be interesting. But these people aren't that stupid with their MONEY smilies/smiley.gif
dnbaiacu
written by João da Silva, September 07, 2008
I really did not want to comment, but unfortunately I have to, after reading the comments of Thaddeus and you. You both seem to agree on YOUR earlier advice to follow the "money".

What want to say is that Brazil is no different from the U.S. I got a big kick out of the Republican Convention, where the "cabo eleitoral" of McCain was none other than Joe Lieberman, who as you may recall, was Al Gore´s running mate in 2000. He reminds me of José Sarney, our ex-president and currently a senator from Amapa (though he is from Maranhão). Sarney was always in cahoots with our military "Government", belonged to Arena (later turned into PDS). I can not help laughing out loud, when I see Sarney talking about "Ditadura Militar" and I am sure he is getting a fat pension for fighting "the dictatorship".

We call people like Obama as "Laranjas" and he is going to do (as you rightly put it) what others tell him to do. Whether McCain or Obama, it is not going to affect the destiny of our country. Because we have plenty of "Laranjas" here too.

Anyway, it is my line of thoughts and hope Lord Augustus nor you take umbrage to my outspoken views.btw, my political views are more towards that of Forrest and Ch.c. smilies/grin.gif

Thanks for listening to my rants. smilies/smiley.gif
Joao
written by dnbaiacu, September 07, 2008
We call people like Obama as "Laranjas" and he is going to do (as you rightly put it) what others tell him to do.


It IS really that simple. I think that many want to complicate it more because it makes them feel like the "people" are really involved.

Your "rants" are always welcome smilies/smiley.gif
dnbaiacu
written by João da Silva, September 08, 2008
It IS really that simple. I think that many want to complicate it more because it makes them feel like the "people" are really involved.


You are absolutely right.I think that you were a tiny toddler to remember about Lech Walesa of Poland or the rise of his counterpart in Brasil. But, I bet you have read the history!!

Your "rants" are always welcome


Thanks. But still I insist you are right (and so am I) smilies/grin.gif
...
written by Ric, September 08, 2008
One reason that McCain-Palin will win is that the gut-wrenching hatred that the leftist media feels for the GOP candidates will continue to find its way into what they write. They have deadlines and have to write about something, they will vent that rage and go over the top no matter how it hurts BHO and no matter how much he warns them against it.

They can´t help themselves. And therefore they can´t help Obama. They are helping McCain-Palin.
The Real Issue
written by FogoBrasileiro, September 08, 2008
The real issue is not the media's viceral hate for GP, because 1) FOX News in the US is king for many and 2) ABC, CBS and many major network newsies are not shy to critique Obama & even put words in his mouth and Biden's - They leave McCain alone more than not. Still, they do help McCain by bashing Palin. Although she is inept, many may see her as the "common woman".

But even so, the Hillary supporters are clearly offended so any he hoped to gain by picking Palin are moving back to Obama. Palin just further solidifies neo-conservatives and people who had no intention of voting Obama in the first place.

Also, as the economy is tanking and regardless of Iraq surge talk - many still see both as Republican scams & failtures now. As the GOP only relies on hollow speech and polarizing, that crucial independent electorate is seeing McCain as wind and Obama as giving more solid answers by many for the first time.

The real call will be with the Youth vote too - all those people who never cared to vote are spurred to do so by Obama - also in his favor is his town to town strategy he has always run by. This will be a wire thin margin win and there may even be contests to challenge the election especially if Obama wins.

I also have to say as an independent thinker and voter, Obama seems to push what he wants in the face of any party or group, regardless of popularity i.e. Iraq and Gay rights acknowlegdment in more ethic conservative communities. We shall see what prevails. I didn't think he'd beat HIllary and although I like her - McCain is now referencing her playbook from when her campaign was looking bleek. We shall see if he meets his demise by thinking Americans ... smilies/tongue.gif
For all practical purposes Barack Obama is history
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 08, 2008
Reply to Dnbaiacu


You asked me for an explanation, but you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure this one out.

I posted the following information that I had prepared on the Elite Traders website on May 12, 2008 – Since then both political parties had their conventions and announced their running mates – Joe Biden for the Democrats and Sarah Polin (She is a hot Babe) for the Republicans.

As of today the latest poling numbers shows that John McCain is ahead of Barack Obama by about 2 points.

For all practical purposes Barack Obama is history.

Here is what I wrote and posted on ET Forum 4 months ago.


May 12, 2008

SouthAmerica: The November 2008 presidential election it will become a case study for future generations to see how a dumb political party lost an election that it was supposed to win.

After such a major loss only idiots would continue as a member of such Pathetic political party.


Registered voters in the United States as of January 2004:

Democratic Party = 72 million people

Republican Party = 55 million people

Independents = 42 million people.

Total registered voters = 169 million people.


*****


Black population on the United States

Black population both sexes total 18 years old and over = 24.9 million

Registered voter = 16.0 million
Not Registered = 8.9 million

Voted in 2004 presidential election = 14.0 million
Did not vote in 2004 presidential election = 10.9 million

Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Current Population Survey – November 2004
Data released May 25, 2005


*****


In 2000 presidential election 13 million blacks voted on that election.

In 2004 presidential election 14 million blacks voted on that election.

In 2008 maybe 16 million blacks might vote on this particular election because of Barack Obama.


*****


Official results of the 2004 Presidential election:

George W. Bush (Republican Party) = 62,040,610 people.

John Kerry (Democratic Party) = 59,028,444 people.


In the presidential election of 2004 about 121 million people voted out of 169 million total registered voters = 71 percent of registered voters participated on that election.


*****


The United States probably will have 175 million registered voters for the presidential election of 2008. If about 75 percent of these people participate on that election then about 131 million people are going to vote.


The winner of the 2008 presidential election will need about 66 million votes to win in November 2008.

If 100 percent of black voters vote for Barack Obama = 16 million people.
He still will need another 50 million votes from the white folks to complete the 66 million votes necessary to win in November 2008.

Things to keep in mind about the 2008 presidential election:

Ralph Nader will take a few million voters from the Democratic Party.

Lou Dobbs probably convinced a few million people to switch political party and become an independent.

In 2008 we might have 50 million independent registered voters.


*****


Conclusion:

There is no way in hell that Barack Obama can win the general election in November 2008.

If Al Gore is the Democratic Party nominee he can pick up most of Ralph Nader’s supporters plus millions of independent voters.

Al Gore would win the November 2008 election in a landslide.

If Barack Obama is the Democratic Party nominee then the election would be given on a silver plate to John McCain and the Republican Party would win in November 2008.

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure that one out.

At the end of the day the only history that the Democratic Party is making in November 2008 – Those Dumb Democrats they can’t win a presidential election even when everything is going on their favor.

.
Reply to Dnbaiacu
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 08, 2008
By the way, they reinstated my account at Elite Trader.

My screen name on that forum is SouthAmerica.

I had a thread on that Forum for the last 2 years about Al Gore for president in 2008. And there are over 800 comments on that thread.

The above information you can find under the date May 12, 2008.

Al Gore is out of the picture now.

.


Regarding the Democratic Party...
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 08, 2008

The Democratic Party has become a political party expert in losing elections that were almost impossible to lose.

The Democratic Party is managing to lose an election during a period that the US economy is going down the toilet. – The US is almost in an economic depression and the Democrats are so dumb that they are in the process of losing another election.

Today the people who run the Democratic Party here in the United States is so incompetent that they probably would manage to lose even a "rigged" election in Zimbabwe if they were running an election in that country.

.
Reply to Ricardo...
written by dnbaiacu, September 08, 2008
We will just have to see won't we? I have stated my case. So I won't go any further into that. Just simply "FOLLOW THE MONEY".

You bring out all these stats on the "black vote" as if the black vote carries the Democratic Party. That is a myth, no one happens to believe or even considered.
If that WERE even remotely true why did the GOP have to steal the election in Florida to get Bush in? The MAJORITY didn't want Bush. Not just blacks.
The MEDIA who presently appears to be Left at this time ,at that time swept all of that under the rug real quick. What was the "force" behind that? A "RIGHT" controlled media?

The MEDIA is CORPORATE controlled. Again you can just follow the paper trail to see who will ultimately influence things.On the USA Today comments board on McCains poll upset, by 9am eastern time there were 4,200 posters and counting. All this poll stuff is about getting people excited. The electoral college will determine the ultimate outcome. And if that doesn't work ,the election will be "stolen again" . And I believe by the hidden Obama camp. (Although they are not good at hiding)
The WORLD is involved in the results of this election. This is not an isolated American issue. The world at large is not buying the Right side of politics. The Right is not the future. Think "globally"! The U.S cannot afford to isolate itself any longer than necessary with a "Right sided political agenda. The MONEY knows this. Obama is being set up to be a Cheerleader for the UNITED NATIONS.(it's mostly Left) Use your imagination. This is why Obama has been ALLOWED/PUSHED to come as far as he has , I might add, "with no experience".. DUH?
To believe that McCain will really win is to believe that the system really works the way it is supposed to "appear" to.. NOT! It is not about numbers. It is about SEDUCTION. A McCain win strictly by the numbers would imply that there are "smart" voters that can see through all of this charade.. NOT! Again. People are basically emotional and prideful at the end of the day. And the "belly" rules. Many who would rather pick a candidate that LOOKS like them , would settle for a candidate that would appear to insure food in the refrigerator , no matter what color he is. And I am only saying this because you delivered more of a race conscious result to the elections. A party dependent on the black vote ,to dumb , so to speak , to win the election they should have in the bag.
Again, blacks voting or not, will have nothing to do with Obama winning.
The ONLY BLACK factor in this is that Obama will have a job none of his old white peers want. Justlike they have Condaleeza running around with her no account job. At the end of the day, it is PRIDE and the BELLY. NOTHING has changed.And VANITY is what has the likes of Obama and Rice taking these ridiculous no account positions. They are both "puppets'. And believe it or not, MOST black people know this. House Negroes turned plantation overseers!
Think out of the box. Think GLOBAL. It's a Left, corporate controlled world now. On an individual basis rich Republicans won't be hurting anyway. This is their shot at Hollywood right now.It doesn't matter if they don't win. And they KNOW THIS! If people haven't figured out that MONEY RULES they are sleeping.
Forget the polls.Foget about the Black vote. Just follow the money.

By the way , I support neither McCain or Obama. I CONSCIENTIOUSLY DON'T VOTE. The system is rigged smilies/wink.gif
Fannie And Freddie bailout equals......
written by dnbaiacu, September 08, 2008
Pseudo government takeover.

Real Federal Reserve Bank takeover.

Government controlled housing under the guise of homeownership.

People control.

Socialism
Pleased with Senator Obama’s intended Foreign Policy // Editorial reflects Extreme Liberal Views
written by AUGUSTUS, September 08, 2008
Pleasantly surprised with Senator Obama’s intended Foreign Policy, I immediately identified Tom Barry – the author if this Editorial – as a typical representative of the “Far Left Wing” component of the Democratic Party, whose members, when in cabinet positions, are generally responsible for reckless, foolish and immature policies and often inaction, based on unbelievable gestures of naïveté regarding matters involving Foreign Policy.

For those who are already familiar with the main reason underlying my unwavering support for the Candidacy of Senator Obama’s quest for the presidency of the United States are likely to be aware that such support is based upon an uncompromising position against the Republican right-wing position on Social Issues, primarily focused on Abortion, Health Care, Religious Extremism and intolerance for “alternative life-styles”. Indeed, regardless of the Republican candidate for any post at any level, anywhere in the country, he/she may count with my total support for whoever his/her opponent may be (in spite of qualifications and questionable associations), for my abhorrence for social conservatism overrides any other issue without any reservation…

Because of this unfortunate limitation, resulting from the extremely restricted nature of the American dual-party restrictions, I am generally compelled to tolerate the Democratic candidate proclivity for dangerously weak views and positions in Foreign Affairs, lame approach towards the Military, and inadequately open-handed views on the Economy, generally supplemented with never ending waves of rules and regulations limiting business activities. In essence, because of the extreme stance on liberal Social related issues, I generally must suffer (if not despair) for with the resulting inadequacy in all other crucial issues of Foreign Affairs (including international conflicts) and the Global economy which, for a Nation with the stature of the USA, may have potentially disastrous (perhaps even catastrophic) impact upon the entire planet!

Yet, in light of eight interminable years of the unprecedented incompetence of George Bush, unmatched blunders from the Vice President, unparalleled ineptitude of his entire cabinet (with the sole possible exception of Ms. Rice), the United States of America obtained a tarnished image among its allies in Europe, lost the crucial hemispherical support from Latin America (except Colombia), and nearly entered into an Economic Depression comparable to the 1930’s (due to extremely relaxed regulations).

Consequently, upon reading Tom Barry’s editorial, where I found that Obama’s Foreign Policy will focus on Support of Mexico, Colombia and Brazil (the only country missing was Chile), while maintaining unwavering commitment to Freedom (liberdade / liberte / liberdad) – which is essential to contain and revert the Dark Shadow of Totalitarianism clearly - which Hugo Chavez’ Bolivarian Red League clearly exemplifies… If Mr. Obama were to utilize the extreme liberal rhetoric advocated by the Far Left, the gates would be opened for the many implacable tyrannies and Populist authoritarian nations ranging not only from Belarus to North Korea and Iran, but also from Venezuela to Bolivia, Cuba, Nicaragua and Ecuador. There can be no further dialogue with Tyrants (unless security from Nuclear threats is involved), there can be no concessions for cheap, revolutionary Caudillos waiving red banners, as there cannot be conciliation with absurdly intolerant Islamist governments wherever they may exist.

Indeed, wherever and whenever concessions and cooperation occurs with systems and regimes bearing views and policies which are invariably incompatible with the most basic ideals cherished in the civilized Western World, the very fabric of its civilization are threatened by oppression, intolerance and restriction. There should never – EVER - be compromise with principles involving Freedom and Liberty, as it affects not only the Citizens of the United States, but also the entire Western Hemisphere, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea, which unquestionably represent the Bastions of Civilization, Liberty and Enlightenment.
dnbaiacu
written by João da Silva, September 08, 2008
Hi,

We will just have to see won't we? I have stated my case. So I won't go any further into that. Just simply "FOLLOW THE MONEY".


Your comments make lot of sense and if I recall correctly, you had predicted the victory of Obama over Hillary in the primaries. The Brazilian scenario for 2010 is no different either. Yesterday, Lula gave an interview to an Argentine Newspaper predicting that the next President will be a Lady, without specifically mentioning her name. Any body who reads the Brazilian national newspapers knows her name as well as to listen to your repeated advice to "follow the money"!

I CONSCIENTIOUSLY DON'T VOTE.


At least, you have that luxury of opting not to go to the polling stations. Here we don't have that choice. smilies/sad.gif
Joao - which Lady?
written by AUGUSTUS, September 08, 2008
I have not yet read the other entries - only the main editorial and your reply to Dnb - are you referring to Martha Supplecy?????
Ricardo Amaral
written by Thaddeus Blanchette, September 08, 2008
Ricardo, I've been looking into a lot of your writings lately, both here and elsewhere and I have two questions to ask:

Do you ever write anything that's not pure hyperbole?

Do you really think that taking the most radical position possible on every single issue is a good way to bring people around to your point of view?

And then there's the fact that you LIVE in the States, like to think of yourself as a well-informed, sober political and economic commentator and yet you don't seem to grasp how national electoral politics run in the U.S., even at the most basic level. It's not about the popular vote: Gore WON the popular vote back in 2000, remember?

It's all about electoral college votes.

Given this, your national population analysis means less than nothing and is particularly silly in light of the fact that the supposedly "loser" Democratic Party that you characterize as being unable to muster a plurality of voters actually did precisely this in 2000 - and STILL lost the election.

What we really need to look at are several key swing states that have a history of going back and forth between red and blue. Wisconsin, for one. Ohio, Oregon... Pennsylvannia, perhaps. Florida and Texas are probably tied up for the Reps, given the Bush family's control of the state machinery there.

And guess what, Ricardo: at the state electoral college level, graft, corruption, pork-barreling, dirty tricks and local issues mean a hell of a lot more than any of that macronumeric analysis you just gave us.

So I'm going to go with the opinion that it's far too early to say who's going to win yet. This election is probably going to go down to the wire. I think Obama is SLIGHTLY favored, but that's all I'll say.

I hope no one pays you to give your "elite trading" analysis and that you're writing there, as you are here, simply in an attempt to make a name for yourself. Because really, Ricardo, if anyone's putting down money for your thoughts on this matter, they are really tossing cash into the wind. Instead of sober analysis, they are getting the prejudiced rantings of a guy who thinks that just because he WANTS something to happen, it must happen.
One more thing...
written by Thaddeus Blanchette, September 08, 2008
Oh, and btw, Ricardo...

You REALLY wasted virtual spit discussing whether or not Al Gore was a viable candidate in 2008?

Why, might I ask?
THE FOUR FREEDOMS WE LONG FOR
written by Ric, September 08, 2008
Freedom from Barack Obama. Freedom from Joe Biden. Freedom from Zbignew Brezinsi. Freedom from George Soros.

Personlly, the only one of the above that I really dislike and that makes me want to puke is Joe Biden.
Augustus
written by João da Silva, September 08, 2008
Since you have mentioned many times that you still understand Portuguese in spite of being away from home for decades, I am posting the following link:

http://vejaonline.abril.com.br...esentation

Enjoy reading. smilies/wink.gif
Are Russians Smart?
written by Ric, September 08, 2008
Oh, you bet they are. Don´t they know that staging war games in the Caribbean or even talking about same helps McCain against Obama? Sure they do. So why the activity at this point in time? Dunno.

Are they as afraid of what Obama might turn into if elected as we? Maybe.
Augustus
written by João da Silva, September 08, 2008
Joao // Dnb - Absence of actual choices - Automatically Anti-Republican
written by AUGUSTUS, September 08, 2008
Joao... Since I DO have the choice (that is - theoretically), I shall ensure that my vote against the Republican Party is duly counted. Yet, in light of the nature of the American electoral system whereby the “Winner takes the all the electoral votes for any State" I suppose that EVEN if I were NOT to cast my vote, such negligence would not necessarily have impacted the results I expect for New York state, which has been historically consistently a “Blue State” (Democrat).

As for the topic of “real choice” in American elections (either presidential or local ballots), despite the right to vote acquired with my citizenship, I dare say that for individuals sharing my strong social liberalism, there will never be actual options available for as long as this country remains restricted to a two-party system (a regrettable limitation)… As such, considering my previously mentioned uncompromising stance on social issues (see former entry under this thread), I am sentenced to the doomed situation of automatically casting ballots for whichever Democratic candidates running for whichever role; this represents a rather uncomfortable state-of affairs which will always preclude me from actual, meaningful choices; yet, my conscience shall never permit me to hypothetically consider any candidate bearing even a remote association to the hypocritical, moralistic, obsessive religious Republican Party!
Joao - Brief remark on editorial from VEJA (your link)
written by AUGUSTUS, September 08, 2008
Many thanks for remembering (and honoring) your former promise to keep me informed about Brazilian politics.

Yet I must confess that, while I started reading the article with a heart full of joy, by the time I concluded the last paragraph I had to refrain from vomiting in light of my never ending astonishment by the ridiculous incompetent moron which Brazilians elected (twice) for their president.

In addition to the customary absurdly moronic comments, I was particularly taken by one statement: "“Com muita humildade, digo que vou eleger meu sucessor" (translating for the English speakers "With great humility, I assert that I SHALL elect my successor) Have you ever read anything more absurd and self delusional?

I presume the Lady you referred earlier appeared in the picture next to the Idiot wearing the equally ridiculous presidential SACHE' (which South American leaders wear with great pride, displaying a banal, uninspired sense of honor “sans gout”). I also suppose the Lady's name to be Dilma Rousseff... Undoubtedly a member of Labor Party (which I despise almost as much as the Republicans - but for different reasons), the editorial implies she is a mayor of some town... Could you clarify?
Bloomberg clip for JOAO / Dnb
written by AUGUSTUS, September 08, 2008
Joao / Dnb - check this out
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/...n_america

At least the article "appears" to indicate the right approach for income emanating from the Pre-Salt Fields... The issue is beliving on its contents...
Augustus
written by João da Silva, September 08, 2008
Could you clarify


Yes, with pleasure. She is the First Lady of our Great Republic. smilies/grin.gif

Shall post you the picture of our "Future" President when I come across one. smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif
Not so fast, Gussie
written by Ric, September 08, 2008
Lula can´t be a moron. He came up from the poor northeast to become president. It is not possible that he is a moron, nor incompetent.

It would not be easy for any moron to become president, but possible for a well-connected and well-born son of privilege. The kind for whom everything comes easy, and easily to hand. Aí, sim. Matuto ou filho de matuto, não. Tem de ser muito esperto.
Ricardo Amaral
written by João da Silva, September 09, 2008
I would be delighted to hear your reply to the comments of Dnb and Thaddeus Blanchette. Though I am not a U.S. citizen like you and the outcome of the Presidential elections does not make any difference to me, it would still be interesting to hear why you are against Obama.
...
written by A Brazilian, September 09, 2008
Lula can´t be a moron. He came up from the poor northeast to become president. It is not possible that he is a moron, nor incompetent.


He has the "Brazilian intelligence", i.e., malandragem. He can't build anything, he can't speak any other language (or even portuguese). And he had the opportunity to study after grown up, but didn't want to. Studying is not one of his hobbies.

It's mistake to say he is intelligent the way you did, because someone that doesn't know Brazil will think he is actually someone that made himself by working or studying. The guy has no ethics, no character, he lies, cheats and will do anything, legal or not, to achieve his goals. If that's "intelligence", then it can only be "malandragem".

It would not be easy for any moron to become president, but possible for a well-connected and well-born son of privilege.


It is easy enough for populist creeps distributing money in places full of poverty. Morales, Chavez, Lula, Latin America is full of moron presidents.
Augustus
written by João da Silva, September 09, 2008
Have you ever read anything more absurd and self delusional?


Yes. Everyday. smilies/cheesy.gif
Sem(eye) Democracy
written by Simpleton, September 09, 2008
DoneByIowaCu, don't think people really understand just how clearly and accurately you pegando'd tudo on the bailouts. Dems or Re-pubics are fine - doesn't really matter either way and some can be clearly observed to go both ways. Socialism on the other hand is dangerous indeed.
Who are we talking about here?
written by Thaddeus Blanchette, September 09, 2008
He can't build anything, he can't speak any other language (or even portuguese). And he had the opportunity to study after grown up, but didn't want to. Studying is not one of his hobbies.


Errrr... that would be George W. Bush then, right? Noted scholar, linguist and a president renowned for his competent management of his nation's affairs?

What I can't figure is why people hate Lula so much for being an ignorant, populist screw-head when Bush is easily just as bad.
Reply to Dnbaiacu - Race vs. Gender
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 09, 2008
.
At the end of the day this election has been defined for a long time as being about race and gender.

If wasn’t because of his race Barack Obama would not have got so much publicity as a presidential candidate. That’s why the other candidates dropped out of the race so soon – the mainstream media had defined the race between race (Obama) and gender (Hillary). This presidential race has been just an experiment run by the Democratic Party and in the process they did split the party along these lines.

Hillary would be the current Democratic Party nominee if the Democratic Party were playing games about honoring the primaries in states such as Florida and Michigan.

If they had honored the results of the primaries on these states then the tide of the following primaries would have gone Hillary’s way and she would be the Democratic Party nominee today.

Now that John McCain picked a woman to be his running mate also is going to help get some of the vote of Hillary’s supporters.

Hillary won the primary by 20 points in swing states such as Pennsylvania because Barack Obama pissed the blue-collar workers of that state. (These blue-collar workers are going to vote for Sarah Palin)

Based on the state of the US economy, basically we have a collapsing economy here in the United States and we just have bad news and it does not matter where you look at most of the US population is hurting and things are getting worse by the day for most of the people around the country.

This is the worse economic situation we have had here in the United States since the last Great Depression and with all that going in favor of the Democratic Party (at this point Barack Obama was supposed to be ahead by 20 points) in the latest polls shows that John McCain is ahead of Barack Obama for the first time – and right now John McCain is ahead in the average by 2 points.

John McCain is gaining momentum and he is going to win the election in November 2008.

In today’s world it is not politically correct to say that, but on Election Day more people than you can ever imagine is going to vote for the candidate of their own race.

It is natural for people to vote for their own kind.

At the end of the day a lot of things regarding the United States it is about image and many people are having second thoughts about having a black president which most likely is going to surround himself with a circle of black advisors. (Every time a black man is elected to office for Mayor, governor and so on here in the United States – he associate himself with a circle of people of his own race.)

I am writing about this subject to explain to the readers the impact that the election of Barack Obama is going to have on the image of the United States around the world.

The United States right now has a image of a country that is in complete economic and prestige free fall and the election of a black man as president is going just to reinforce the idea that the United States is really sinking like the Titanic.

If people like it or not the image that black leaders have around the world is not good and it does not matter how you look at their past record.

Let me clarify the perception that the world has about black leaders. About 10 years ago Time magazine had a cover article about Africa. In the cover of the magazine they had the map of the African Continent and inside the map they had a picture of a very skinny African boy.

It was a special article about Africa, but I never forgot one piece of information that they had on that article, because that summarized on a nutshell the kind of leadership Africa project to the rest of the world. The article said: “ the Sub-Sahara Africa had at that time a population larger than 600 million people and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of all these countries combined was lower than the GDP of Belgium with a population of 10 million people at that time.

I asked a few very intelligent and well-educated friends of mine to give me the name of one black leader that did a good job running a country – any country, anywhere.

After thinking for a while all of them came up with only one name – Nelson Mandela.

Then I told them Nelson Mandela’s claim to fame is based on the fact that he was in prison for 27 years and not because he had made his name as a superb leader of a country such as South Africa - Nelson Mandela was a revolutionary.

Mandela became president of South Africa, but today the economy of South Africa still is nothing to write home about for most of their population.

For a country obsessed with image the election of Barack Obama as its new president would project an image of economic decline to the rest of the world since the rest of the world associate the African Continent with the image of economic failure.

.

Reply to Thaddeus Blanchette
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 09, 2008

.
Thaddeus Blanchette is a 41-year old North American immigrant to Brazil, with doctorate degree in Social Anthropology from the National Museum, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro.


******


September 9, 2008

Ricardo: Here is some hyperbole for you.

I am afraid that we are slowly collapsing into the first Great Depression of the new millennium and you can read what I wrote about that subject just following George W. Bush’s reelection in November 2004. The article was published on “The Brazilians” in December 2004 and on Brazzil Magazine in February 2005.

That article is interesting because I wrote it from the point of view of October 2008 just a week before the election and I look back to what happened the last 4 years.

It’s 2008. The US Has Dragged the World into a Depression.
By Ricardo C. Amaral
http://www.brazzilmag.com/content/view/1424/


I said the following in that article: “Today, wealthy Brazilians still have billions of dollars invested here in the United States. Most of these investors probably will lose a large part of their investments in the coming years, because they will not take their money out of the US, and they refuse to believe in the coming melting down of the US dollar and US economy.”

When my article was first published in December 2004 on “The Brasilians” the exchange rate between the Brazilian Real to the US dollar was 2.7 real to US$ 1.

On September 1, 2008 the exchange rate between the Brazilian Real and the US dollar was 1.64 real to US$ 1.

In currency translation alone the Brazilians lost 40 percent of the value of their investment in US dollars during the period December 2004 to September 2008.
Brazilians had invested in US dollars at that time over $ 100 billion dollars.

.
Reply to Dnbaiacu
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 09, 2008
On the above posting I did not mention also the votes that Ralph Nader is going to take away from the Democratic Party candidate.

Ralph Nader is going to become another factor from now on regarding the outcome of the presidential election of November 2008. Only now the candidates have reached the stretch and they are going to start the final dash to the finish line.

With all the hurricanes that we are having and all the damage that we are going to watch on television in the coming months - don't forget Ralph Nader has been an environment advocate for a long time.

The environment is one of the babies of Ralph Nader and he will have a lot to say about it during this presidential campaign.

Ralph Nader is better organized this time around and even better than in 2000 and he will be a factor in the outcome of this election.

By the way, Ralph Nader is the best candidate of this bunch by a mile.

Ralph Nader = represents Substance, outstanding.

John McCain = represents Mediocrity, second rate.

Barack Obama = represents Mediocrity, second rate.

.
.

Outstanding...And, They Are Mild
written by Ric, September 09, 2008
Go Nader. Hope he gets his highest number of votes this time around.

Let bygones be bygones, but some of us resent the fact that his book finally succeeded in gettting the Corvair cancelled in 1969...after all the problems had been corrected, the swing axles redesigned, safety concerns addressed, but it was Too Late. We were saving a pristine 1969 coupe with low mileage, but sold it a few years ago.
Represents Substance
written by Ric, September 09, 2008
May not be the best choice of words in view of the widely used phrase, Substance Abuse, and the title of Nader´s book, Unsafe at Any Speed.....
Nader
written by Ric, September 09, 2008
The Gadfly in the General Motors ointment. What I like about him includes the fact that he still denies having cost Gore the election. You couldn´t make this guy up.
Race vs. Gender comment
written by Ric, September 09, 2008
What political correctness has succeeded in doing is not changing people´s minds about the world they live in and their neighbors in that world. What it has done is to internalize their feelings, cause them to keep their mouths shut, and lie to pollsters.

Not really what the left had in mind.
independent candidates - my view
written by AUGUSTUS, September 09, 2008
While I would be delighted with the existence of alternative parties in the United States, which had candidates capable of realistically being elected for the presidency, because my vote is primarily intended to ensure that a Republican is NOT elected, I could not possibly take a chance to take away my single vote from the only realistic opponent - namely the democratic candidate...
...
written by Ric, September 09, 2008
What continues to amaze politicians about Nader after all these years is that he is truly uncorruptable, wants nothing for himself.
Nader Counts
written by Ric, September 09, 2008
According to Rasmussen, he polls 2% in Florida, while Obama and McCain are tied there. He gets 1% in Ohio, which shows Mac leading Barry by 51 to 44.

Don´t waste your vote on a loser. Vote for Ralph and you will feel better about yourself. You need the karma, Gussie.

The differences between Ralph and Barry could not be more accentuated. Barry smokes cigarettes even though he told his wife he would quit. Whereas Ralph is a consistent environmentalist.
Ricardo,, You are missing the point
written by dnbaiacu, September 09, 2008
At the end of the day this election has been defined for a long time as being about race and gender.

This is called DISTRACTION.
The problem is you can't accept being duped .
It is natural for people to vote for their own kind.

You are insulting the intelligence of your own people (assuming you are caucasian)
Those that know better ,KNOW Obamas race doesn't matter. That is why this race is appearing to be so close.
And again , you are still going on a Popular Vote premise, in which case your little scenario may have credence in the end. BUT it is about ELECTORAL COLLEGE VOTES. And MONEY is behind that.. BIG MONEY that has already been spent.
At the end of the day a lot of things regarding the United States it is about image and many people are having second thoughts about having a black president which most likely is going to surround himself with a circle of black advisors. (Every time a black man is elected to office for Mayor, governor and so on here in the United States – he associate himself with a circle of people of his own race.)

If you really believe that is going to happen , you are in your own little world. First of all, where its "really going to count", most of the Supreme Court Justices have life appts by Bush. So that area is sewed up.
Secondly, with Obamas "all inclusive" platform there is no way he can defy that and surround himself with in your words, "his own kind". He is not trying to polarize the system.
MONEY knows no color. And if you want to get very basic,,, WHO has the money????? If you deduce this whole election to a race and gender issue you are the easiest bait these manipulators are successfully fooling. And that puts you in the category of no account "trash". You are insulting a lot of peoples intelligence and causing many to question your own.
The United States right now has a image of a country that is in complete economic and prestige free fall and the election of a black man as president is going just to reinforce the idea that the United States is really sinking like the Titanic.

NOW, you MAY have a point! smilies/wink.gifThis is just the desired after effect. (that's a whole different book)
But YOUR particular reason for making that statement just proves Blanchettes point.
they are getting the prejudiced rantings of a guy who thinks that just because he WANTS something to happen, it must happen.


You SO NOT want a black man to represent the country that it simply JUST CAN"T HAPPEN.
If this will make you feel better.."IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT COLOR THE PRESIDENT IS."
The informed and intelligent and usually, well strapped,, understand that.
You don't understand or want to accept that you are being DUPED. I suggest you take a more GEO POLITIC approach to your political science.
Dude! Ths KKK preferred OBAMA any day over Hillary! Google it!And get over it.
For a country obsessed with image the election of Barack Obama as its new president would project an image of economic decline to the rest of the world since the rest of the world associate the African Continent with the image of economic failure.

Everything you said above this quote of yours, shows you went to a U.S public school or never paid attention in whatever school you went to. We all know that Africas "leaders" are pawns of the colonizers. Africa was raped long ago. And still has her legs spread apart. Very poor analogy on your part.
As for AMERICAS image.... News flash!
THIS IS PRECISELY WHAT THE GLOBAL CAPITALISTS WANT
We are in a New World Ricardo Amaral. And you should try to catch up smilies/wink.gif
You are probably asking yourself WHY? smilies/cry.gif smilies/cry.gif smilies/cry.gif smilies/cry.gif Boo Hoo.. Why are they doing this to us?
Pick up a dollar bill, (while they are stil around smilies/wink.gif smilies/wink.gif smilies/wink.gif
Study the symbols
Now that was pretty deep.....
written by dnbaiacu, September 09, 2008
What political correctness has succeeded in doing is not changing people´s minds about the world they live in and their neighbors in that world. What it has done is to internalize their feelings, cause them to keep their mouths shut, and lie to pollsters.

And would probably end up effecting the final election outcome if it weren' for ELECTORAL COLLEGE VOTES AND DELEGATES AND SUPER DELEGATES
Comments like this just further proves that NOTHING has changed or should be expected to.
Insecurity still prevails smilies/wink.gif
the above comment wasn't directed to the poster
written by dnbaiacu, September 09, 2008
just a generalization of the reality he spoke of
Ricardo Amaral...
written by dnbaiacu, September 09, 2008
I just thought of something....
If you aren't a U.S native,, that would explain how you don't get it. You are so pro-McCain I mistakenly stereotyped you. I could be wrong.
At any rate..
Think GLOBAL
Think International Capitalists
Think Federal Reserve Bank is not part of the Federal Government
Think Communism synchronized with Democracy is a Socialism of sorts.
This is the Global future
Everyone has got to jump on the bandwagon to survive.
dnbaiacu
written by João da Silva, September 09, 2008
You SO NOT want a black man to represent the country that it simply JUST CAN"T HAPPEN.
If this will make you feel better.."IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT COLOR THE PRESIDENT IS."
The informed and intelligent and usually, well strapped,, understand that.
You don't understand or want to accept that you are being DUPED. I suggest you take a more GEO POLITIC approach to your political science.


A friend of mine said a long time ago that the "Plastic Credit Cards" are of different colors! An interesting essay, Dnb. It is all about GEOPOLITICS (and GLOBALIZED economy) and fight for scarce resources.

When we elected a machinist who did not even complete his Primary School as President twice (and probably again in 2014) with the blessings of OUR "Establishment", you guys can elect a Black guy (who was the Editor of HLR)as your President, at least for one term. smilies/grin.gif
Dnb - interesting your comment about BEING ON A NEW WORLD
written by AUGUSTUS, September 09, 2008
OF course I agree with you and the issues you have addressed
Yet, although you know we are in a NEW world, YOU swill access your scriptures of the OLD ONE smilies/wink.gif - You're contradicting your actions
(NO QUOTES FROM THE MEANINLESS DOCUMENT PLEASE!!!!)
For every quote from your document, i will tying to find links extra terrestrias (WHICH I DO BELIEVE BY THE WAY)
Augustus
written by dnbaiacu, September 09, 2008
You are funny smilies/cheesy.gif
The popular book transcends time. And accurately "predicts" world empires coming and going.
I won't quote smilies/smiley.gif But a 7th King that presently dominates will cheerlead the rest of the world governments to give up their sovereignties to and 8th and final king.
On this premise alone it is so EASY to see what is happening. Their is nothing "Old World" about this information.
It is good you believe in extra terrestials. To not do so would be ignorant. People get "possessed" all the time the world over. And modern day science purports to know so much, yet they can't explain the pyramids and where the knowledge came from to build them in that era or even IF human beings built some of them. And what about "crop circles" found around the world? All ambiguous explanations. And Ouja boards? Yes ET's exist. And don't think they aren't manipulating human affairs. Where does the word "incubus" come from? Yes, they like sexing women too.
The "old popular book" explains the orgin and intent of these ET's.
The New World is going to be VERY LEFT. And you should be happy. No one is trying to hear about restricting abortions. Hollywood is saturated with gay propaganda and nothing is going to stop that machine,the money is on their side. And people are tired of tired religious leaders meddling in politics. Something JESUS never did. So they go on the news each and every time making fools of themselves with some of the craziest things they come up with.
So I think a McCain win is a fantasy that those that haven't figured out the "establishment" is a new and hidden beast. Not rich, white, conservative, mostly racists Republicans "having a form of godly devotion but proving false to its power". And again not that I personally support Democrats or any party. The world isn't hearing John McCain.
At some point the U.S will be successfully polarized anyway. It doesn't matter who wins the election. The scheme is divide and conquer.The U.S HAS to weaken for the U.N. to make a coup. Voila'! New World Order. Many here cringe at the thought. And that is why the North American Union is such a hush hush topic here. It isn't politically correct to discuss it. And hardly NO ONE ever does. Yet what do we in todays news about doing away with the dollar in Argentinan and Brazilian commerce. And the advent of on currency for Mercosul.
CHANGE IS on the horizon.
On a lighter note , I am glad the dollar is experiencing a rally. I can't buy reais quick enough. smilies/smiley.gif
Augustus..
written by dnbaiacu, September 09, 2008
Also you may be interested in knowing that attempting to debunk the "meaningless" book is "predicted' to be the order of the day. On a MUCH greater scale than is already happening.You should love the up and coming moment in history. Religion WILL be the focus. But people HATING it. This topic will be unavoidable.
They keep mentioning that if American pull out of Iraq and Afghanastan sectarian violence and division will escalate.That will leave the problem , not to the U.S , but to the whole world. Everyone thinks inflation is an issue now? Ha Ha! We haven't seen anything yet.
What's so interesting is that there is STILL a good amount of time before the election for ANYTHING to happen. This is what makes it so exciting. Who is going to pull what before November 5th?
But I think we were meant to see this show of an election to the end. So much money has been invested. Obamas' got the ET's(the bad ones) on his side. I can tell based on one word alone HOPE being a part of his campaign.
Can the "movers and shakers" deliver that? Or is that the business of a major ET?
dnb - recomendations
written by AUGUSTUS, September 10, 2008
Young man... smilies/wink.gif
Would you do US a favor and rent the following movie? "Jerome's Byxby's MAN FROM EARTH". The premise of the fiction is cute but a bit silly... Yet, it includes the most amazing discussions, among several highly educated individuals of various religious persuasions and varied academic training...

On a cold night in a remote cabin, a "certain professor" garhters his most trusted colleagues for an extraordinary announcement: he is IMMORTAL and 14,000 years old... It's fabulous. Some of the issues discussed (not the immortal claim) are prety close to what I believe...

Other than that, please refer to your public library, and please read the "Origins of the Species" by Sir Charles Darwin, will you? Otherwise, plese access - natgeotv.com

WATCH THE MOVIE!!!!
Augustus
written by dnbaiacu, September 10, 2008
Ok I will rent "Man From Earth" if I can find it at Block Busters.
Of course I have already read Darwins , "Orgins of the Species" .It's required reading in the academic curriculum I was groomed in. In my opinion you have to have just as much "faith" to believe in evolution as you would in Intelligent Design. Actually even more. The theory has too many holes in it. With no hope or purpose for the homosapien experience. I prefer to believe I was designed with a purpose to fullfill. Life beautifully makes more sense that way. And I DO feel more comfortable, less anxious, when I can make SENSE of things. There is a certain "harmony" that goes with that. Evolution tends to sponsor chaos as the order of the day. And since the theory is so popular and accepted as fact by the "movers and shakers" of the world , is it any wonder the world is in the shape it is today.
When you want to believe there is nothing "divine" about yourself, you can't help BUT behave like animals.
smilies/wink.gif
dnb
written by AUGUSTUS, September 10, 2008
the holes have been closing since 1859
most have closed... besides... even if it were ALL Holes, i WOULD STILL prefer that your absurd version - sorry... I try not to feel disappointed with those I like who believe in CREATION, cause in my opinion only the idiots and uneducated are forgiven.... It' UNCONCEIVABLE FOR ME....
actually anything on it - appears absurd to me... not just emaculate conception , but to have the audacity to think the earth is just 10,000 years old - is beyond ridiculous _ no quotes - I do not read them.... sorry
Deteriorating situation in Bolivia
written by João da Silva, September 10, 2008
Keeping a close watch on the drama unfolding in our neighboring country. I suggest you all do too.
first of all
written by Forrest Allen Brown, September 10, 2008
one must belive in ones self .

be self aware.
be self confident in your thoughts and actions

not only have a dream but be enough to live that dream

my place is on the ocean in the middle kill the motors and drift all night long with nothing but the waves on the hull , and the light from the sky.

to not only here the sound of the flying fish but to see them in flight ,to watch the waves dance with the wind .

then i beleive in something grater than myself
Run, Forrest!
written by Macunaima, September 10, 2008
then i beleive in something grater than myself


Don't give up hope, Forrest. You're pretty damned grating yourself.
Augustus
written by dnbaiacu, September 10, 2008
the audacity to think the earth is just 10,000 years old

I wholeheartedly agree. The idea is ridiculous and the "popular book" doesn't even imply that. Maybe some "religious group" has that theory? But the old book doesn't say that. There are many examples in the book where the word "Day" can apply to epics or generations. There is no 10,000 limit in the bible to creation.
At the end of the day Augustus , you have to have a "sincere" interest in studying the Bible. That's a personal choice. If it doesn't interest you , it's all good. Just remember Darwins Theory with the "survival of the fittest". It is going to apply just as well if we happen to be creatures designed with "spiritual" capacities. smilies/wink.gif
Concerning the Moron Robin the Crook...as per a Brazilian !
written by ch.c., September 10, 2008
You are so right ! You have my applauses !

He has even betrayed and let down his own many brothers and sisters.
No help for them. What a shame, what a shame.
One of his brother in an interview during the vote buying scandal even said their parents would have not been proud of Lula !


I dont know how true ikt is but having read about Lula history, looks like he had a work accident and lost one finger. Since then...never ever worked. On pension ! And right after that he became a unionist !


...
written by .., September 11, 2008
I dont know how true ikt is but having read about Lula history, looks like he had a work accident and lost one finger. Since then...never ever worked. On pension ! And right after that he became a unionist !


It is bloody true. He also gets pension for having spent a night in DOPS at SP. You are too innocent. smilies/grin.gif
Reply to Dnbaiacu
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 11, 2008
Dnbaiacu: If you aren't a U.S native,, that would explain how you don't get it. You are so pro-McCain I mistakenly stereotyped you. I could be wrong.


******


Ricardo: I guess you have not been paying attention to my postings.

I said: By the way, Ralph Nader is the best candidate of this bunch by a mile.

Ralph Nader = represents Substance, outstanding.

John McCain = represents Mediocrity, second rate.

Barack Obama = represents Mediocrity, second rate.

.


From bad to worse...
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 11, 2008
Reply to Joao da Silva

You said: Deteriorating situation in Bolivia.

Ricardo: Yes, I am aware of what is going on in Bolivia.

I read the front page article on Folha de Sao Paulo about the sabotage to the gas pipeline that supplies gas to Brazil.

To make things even worse all we could do last night was tie the game with Bolivia.

Dunga must be fired.

.


Ricardo....
written by dnbaiacu, September 11, 2008
I read your endorsement of Nader. I just didn't get your reasoning on how McCain WILL win the election.
If being President REALLY mattered Ron Paul and his questioning the relevance of the Federal Reserve Bank would be the direct hit to what is really going on.
But they would just take him out like they did Kennedy that dared to question the same thing.
The truth is , time is up for the U.S..Those in the know KNOW this. VOILA Barrack Obama.That the "hidden establishment" is supporting.Being a Republican is just done for "appearance" sake. Standing up for a certain way of thinking. Basically nationalistic. For example , the "Country First" slogan. You have to keep the true believers , believing. It is good for the countries moral. Obamamaniacs are desperate. Obama financiers "know what time it is".
The U.S can longer isolate itself with a "Country First" platform. We will see what happens, because politics are usually full of surprises.Eventhough it hardly suprised me that McCain picked Palin.Not to win women voters I think, but for the pure "distraction" effect. I say this for the fact that the "establishment" puts who they want in office. So attracting certain persuasions of voters is ultimately a NON ISSUE at the end of the day. Life is going to be very different in the U.S very soon. It's about keeping it simple and staying out of and avoiding debt.Otherwise the government/Fed Bank will own you.

It's 911 by the way.. Have ever since 2001 folded up the $5, $10 $20 $50 and $100 bills into the airplane that literally in sequence shows the towers being hit and destroyed?
These bills were designed WAY before Sept 11, 2001. No coincidence or after thought. This is the evil we are dealing with. It is pure orchestrated, designed evil , that they throw in your face and dare you to question.
We also know that no plane hit the pentagon. Do you know that? Research it.
There is an unstoppable plan in effect here. smilies/angry.gif
I just thank GOD it is already written smilies/smiley.gif
Ch.c ..? Are you there?
written by dnbaiacu, September 11, 2008
I would like financial advice and preparation for the advent of the Amero. The North American Union currency.. How can I prepare "capitalize' on that (if possible) now?

Your comments are very much anticipated smilies/smiley.gif smilies/smiley.gif smilies/smiley.gif smilies/smiley.gif
Reply to Dnbaiacu
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 11, 2008
Yesterday The New York Times had an article saying that Ralph Nader and Ron Paul are going to have a major political event.

People are expecting that Ron Paul will endorse Ralph Nader for president.

.
Ricardo..
written by dnbaiacu, September 11, 2008
Yesterday The New York Times had an article saying that Ralph Nader and Ron Paul are going to have a major political event.


I saw that. It would be a good thing if the majority understood Ron Pauls position. But they are duped and clueless. The whole deal is sewed up anyway. And there is not enough public information on the Federal Reserve Bank conspiracy. And probably no one would believe it, or care if they knew.

Augustus? Are you there.. Are you reading this?
Dnb
written by AUGUSTUS, September 11, 2008
I've already expressed my views quite clearly: despite Nadar good intentions, he will simply help a Republican Victory, which for me it’s UNACCEPTABLE!
As much as I would embrace additional parties into the American Political circuit with all my heart, I dare say the natives are not prepared to accept this possibility... Americans appear to be obsessed by this enormous limitation and unable to emulate their politically more mature European allies.
Perfectly Clear
written by Ric, September 11, 2008
Vote Nader this year.
You all are on it!
written by siemprejulia, September 12, 2008
This is one of the most interesting posts I've read on the US selection.
Sometimes it takes a broader mindset to actually talk about something -voces sao demais!

OK - how come none of you have mentioned the strongest presidential candidates this year: CYNTHIA MCKINNEY and ROSA CLEMENTE !
Cynthia McKinney, former Congresswoman from Georgia is a long-time fighter for the poor, people of color and a 911 whistle blower. She got booted out of Congress for it, and she won't stop fighting. If you can get your hands on the video 'American Blackout' you'll see what I mean...
They are the only ones talking about dismantaling the US Prison Industry, doing something about health care and making university affordable so young people don't have to gradute 40,000 dollars in debt. Try getting Obama to talk about that.....

The worst part about being in this country right now is the delusion of the liberals who think a man can save them. Social movements come from the bottom up, not the top down. Obama may have the gift of speech, but he is big business and police state - very little will change under an Obama administration. I've done a few short hours of research and know his financial ties and voting record fairly well....

Obama's mentor was Joe Lieberman. He sits on the Homegrown Terrorism Act commitee, voted to favor Credit Card companies over the poor, told the Chicago Tribune in 2004 that he supported the Iraq Invasion as much as George Bush, backs nuclear energy and coal, is weak on abortion. And this is a short summary.

In my opnion he will do nothing or very little for the average person, and even less for those who need it. But he's eloquent, is good-looking, young, has charisma and Americans will be wowed over by that and won't notice how bad things are until they get even worse.
Obama will be a great distraction, while the same imperialist policies continue.

Um abraco para todos voces!
siemprejulia - additional explanation...
written by AUGUSTUS, September 12, 2008
Milady
With the rare pleasure of addressing a gracious & well-read member of the "so-called fair-sex", I must simply and sadly concur with your objections to Senator Obama... Were this country to have a healthy, European-like multi-party system, I would never have become a democratic registered voter...
Yet, as explained elsewhere, with greater detail, regardless of my right wing proclivities in international & economic affairs, I could not override my extreme liberal views which include pro-choice, anti-religion and absolute freedom of an individual to chose his/her life-style... That's why I must support Obama!
Green Nut Case
written by Ric, September 12, 2008
Few of us had ever heard about heard about Cynthia McKinney before she got into the scrape with security, pushing her way through and allegedly shoving or striking a security guard, having evidently forgotten her lapel pin which served as a security pass.

When she lost in 2002 she took it to court alleging discrimination, and the case was seen as having no merit.

Still, she´s smart cookie, even though one of the reasons she lost some of her races was evidently her theory that Bush knew about 911.

If she wins, she can find out the real reasons for the death of Tupac Shakur. Right, just like Bill Clinton told some of his friends that after he was sworn in, he wanted to find out if flying saucers are real.

Except that he did get sworn in, and nothing more was ever heard about the matter.
ric - the suprising conservative
written by AUGUSTUS, September 12, 2008
Considering some of your entries... It's shocking to find you as a conservative on every issue (esp. in social – which, as you know by now is my SOLE liberal side).

I see no issues with attempting to investigate extra-terrestrials, for I'm convinced of existence of life in other worlds (most not necessarily intelligent and if so space faring... And that at least one species has been visiting Earth for decades, perhaps centuries...

To expect life exists only on this tiny planet, and that life necessarily requires Earth type conditions, I would consider it as a rather "limited" outlook (mostly likely molded by so-called religious, mythological primitive beliefs...
Coast to Coast
written by Ric, September 12, 2008
Something is certainly out there, Roswell was a cover up, Google Colares and you will see Father De La O, I knew him well, he had been an evangelical before he became a priest, they called him the Padre Evangelico, a Mexican-American from Texas.

The point being that Clinton found out something and did not evidently tell his buddies what it was. Why?
national security - I'm sure
written by AUGUSTUS, September 12, 2008
While I would love to see this issue officially clarified, I can understand the reason why it is not disclosed...

Not only it would make those who have religion finally question their faith (which is only natural), it would create pandemonium, fear and insecurity - I can fully understand the results of millions questioning their beliefs - one probably try to avoid it...

Yet, MOST IMPORTANTLY, it would convey a sense of hopelessness for the people... If millions were to become aware of a force, or forces which our governments or militaries CANNOT DO anything about it.... it could result in chaos.

Admitting that none of the major governments are a match to such alien presence which, it is believed, responsible for temporarily seizing individuals (every where across the planet) to conduct experiments and keep track on them during their entire lives, and that the USA, RUSSIA, EUROPEAN UNION or China cannot do much, even move an INCH in their protection, might create a crisis which no government on earth would like wish to happen...

Thus, I can totally understand the need for cover up...
At least someone is catching on ...
written by dnbaiacu, September 12, 2008
Obama will be a great distraction, while the same imperialist policies continue.


dear auggie
written by siemprejulia, September 12, 2008
Dear Augustus:
I respect your opinion, but I wonder where you get your information from. As you know, here in the US it's hard to find the truth - the corporations control almost all of the media.
Try reading "The Truth About Obama" by Matt Gonzalez and tell me what you think.
He does not support abortion as well as he could: in the Illinois State Senate, he voted 'present' on all abortion lawsa instead of 'for' or 'against'. He just came out last month saying he opposes partial birth abortion, and that the right to choose is bewtween a woman and her doctor or clergyman.
The right to choose must be between the woman and HERSELF. If you are not free to decide about your own body, you are a kind of a slave, in my opinion.

Persoanlly, I see both parties running the Imperialst death machine - I could never kiss the hand that slaps me.

Cheers!
Julia
siemprejulia - You missed the most crucial underlying issue
written by AUGUSTUS, September 12, 2008
Your point is well taken...
Unfortunately, my choice remains between 2 feasible parties...

One faction represents an absolutely UNACCEPTABLE choice, regardless of the quality of any candidate, the importance of other issues, and the inadequacy of their opponents, namely - The obnoxious Republican Party.

The opposing (single) option being a party whose candidate may display, suggestion or even advocate questionable points, here in there...

Quite frankly, I re-emphasize my point that I do not have a choice, BUT to vote for the lesser of the two evils!

Given the limited nature of the American political dual system, unlike substantial political evolution ensues within the next several decades, I would NEVER be in a position to risk a wasted vote for a minor obscure third party or for a well intended independent, since my sole concern is to prevent a party which emphasizes biblical interpretations, questionable rigid morality and boundless hypocrisy to assume or re-gain control of the White House!

In view of such limitations, despite my great respect to individual freedom, and mild aristocratic sensitivities, in the unlikely event I were given a theoretical (alternative) scenario, where my choice were between Republican or Communist candidates (in the same dual set up), despite my strong anti-communist views (where Marxists represent enemies of Freedom), I would STILL be compelled to vote for such communist opponent, thereby ensuring a government free of what I most despise: emphasis on intolerable morality based on primitive religious views!!!

In fact, the only scenario (within a dual system) where the Republican Party would get my vote, would be the even more unlikely situation where their opponents were members of an Islamic party, which is even more odious and repugnant to my extreme anti-religious standpoint! Hopefully you have understood that I cannot tolerate and shall never condone such primitive, unacceptable practices, where the objectionable personal election to conduct primitive worship of divinities (along with the resulting unacceptable morality) is imposed upon society at large!

Hoping I did not offend your sensibilities expressing my honest opion, I remain,
Sincerely yours...
Mixed Feelings
written by Ric, September 12, 2008
Watching Liberals abort their offspring.

firm convictions - for Ric
written by AUGUSTUS, September 12, 2008
Liberals, while aborting their ameba-like fetuses, watch in dismay and horror as Republicans attempt to teach "Creation" or the so-called "(Stupid) Intelligent Design" to school children in the early 21st century, as they hold their hands up, eyes rolling in deep prayer for the primitive gods...
Not sure if you're pro-choice?
written by siemprejulia, September 12, 2008
Dear Gentlemen,
If you are not sure whether to support the right to choose, here are two options:
1)Get a vasectomy
2)Use two condoms every time
3)Don't have that kind of sex
4)Just read books and be celibate

Cheers,
Julia
siemprejulia,
written by AUGUSTUS, September 12, 2008
My comments to ric may have been misunderstood by you.
I was specifically comparing a fetus to an ameba, which fully represent my FULL support for a woman to chose!!!!!
In other words, I view a fetus EXACTLY as I would view an ameba or any incomplete organism...
My remark was deliberatly strong to hit the conservatives, such as Ric
...
written by João da Silva, September 12, 2008
Dear Gentlemen,
If you are not sure whether to support the right to choose, here are two options:
1)Get a vasectomy
2)Use two condoms every time
3)Don't have that kind of sex
4)Just read books and be celibate


There is also a 5th option to remain celibate. Just sit in front of your PC and blog with others discussing Geopolitics. smilies/cheesy.gif

Cheers to you too, Julia.
The Right to Choose
written by Ric, September 13, 2008
I strongly defend the right of liberal women to instruct their doctors that as soon as their baby´s head pushes out of the womb, before the rest comes out, the skull is to be punctured and the brains sucked out so they can get out of the hospital as soon as possible, go home and have a nice day.
ric - your graphic details / totally unacceptable
written by Augustus, September 13, 2008
There should be a limit in the expression of your opposition to a woman's legal right regarding abortion. If you intend to exaggerate this sensible act to make your lame point, perhaps you should be considering adopting some unwanted children which are surely surviving, lingering, and leading a limited existence in some forgotten institution located in some dusted corner out of reach of your conservative eyes...
THAT my dear opponent, is the true shame of your proclaimed methods!
Graphic Details
written by Ric, September 13, 2008
You don´t get it, do you? Such a procedure is legal in the states. Once again, the conservative women are not going to be limiting their number of offspring thru abortion even though it is now legal.

The greatest number of aborted fetuses in the states are poor blacks. Some black leaders are already seeing that PP is nothing but a billion-dollar black baby killing industry.

Then there are the white, elite white liberal career women. Since I can´t do anything about it anyway, at least give me the right to state that it gives me Mixed Feelings.
ric - I understand - you have the right!
written by Augustus, September 13, 2008
Seriously
I would never dream of depriving anyone of his/her freedom of expression, even if I had the authority and credentials...
Likewise, so can I...
In my view an aborted fetus is far preferable to a life sentence of poverty, degradation, and possibly crime… the very depiction of your hypocritical so-called “Hell” (which, before anyone replies, with vague conjectures to the contrary, because such fetus could NOT have been given the GUARANTEE that it might have had a healthy productive life - short of a legal pre-birth adoption – there is nothing one can do... As such just the likelihood of surviving for the sake of absurd notion of the alleged “sanctity of life”, does not warrant the possibility of surviving in the midst of misery, fear, and horror!)
Catch 22
written by Ric, September 13, 2008
Those who support Roe V. Wade and would like to see abortion legalized here certainly wish to convince others that their position is the correct one, if nothing more, then for political reasons.

But while they abort their children, those who take a pro-life position would tend to have more children than they, most of which children would also be pro-life.

Including but not limited to family-minded Mexican Americans, most of whom are conservative Catholics and pro-Ratzinger, rural LDS, and hanky-headed Gotherdite Home Schoolers, who often have ten kids.

É de lascar, né?
Errata
written by Ric, September 13, 2008
Gothardite, it should read
The fact that Barack Obama is going to lose the presidential election in November 2008.
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 13, 2008
Last Thursday Charlie Rose had a number of pundits on his television show discussing the latest developments on the 2008 Presidential Election.

One of the pundits was Jonathan Alter and he said that one of the priorities for the new president when he takes office in January 2009 should be to rebuild the United States prestige and clout around the world for the United States to be able to operate in the new global economy in the coming years.

Talking about rebuilding the United States perceived image around the world then we should keep the following in mind:

John McCain is gaining momentum and he is going to win the election in November 2008.

Here is further evidence to back up the fact that Barack Obama is going to lose the presidential election in November 2008.

At the end of the day a lot of things regarding the United States it is about image and many people are having second thoughts about having a black president here in the United States at this time since most likely is going to surround himself with a circle of black advisors and project an image even less appealing to the rest of the world.

If people like it or not the image that black leaders have around the world is not good and it does not matter how you look at their past record.

Let me clarify the perception that the world has about black leaders and let see how they have been doing in recent history to improve their global image. I am going to list some of the black leaders that symbolizes black leadership in the African Continent and elsewhere in the last 40 years and they were the ones who received most of the global news coverage in the recent past as follows:

1) Robert Mugabe (1980 to Present)
Dictator of Zimbabwe

2) Mobutu Sese Seko (1965 – 1997)
Dictator of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo)

3) Idi Amin (1971 – 1979)
Dictator of Uganda

4) François Duvalier, known as "Papa Doc" (1957 – 1971)
Dictator of Haiti

5) Jean-Claude Duvalier, known as "Baby Doc" (1971 – 1986)
Dictator of Haiti

6) Omar Hassan Al-Bashir (1989 to Present)
Dictator of Sudan

7) Charles Taylor (1997 – 2003)
President of Liberia

smilies/cool.gif Nigeria – since 1960 that country has been a complete mess.
Too many bad black leaders to list all their names

9) Rwanda = Rwandan Genocide in 1994
militia groups killed about 800,000 Tutsis and Hutu moderates

10) Somalia – Since 1976 that country has been a basket case.

11) Nelson Mandela (1994 – 1999)
President of South Africa

12) Patrice Lumumba (1960)
Prime minister Republic of the Congo


Above is an example of what black leadership of a country means to the world in recent decades and for a country obsessed with image such as the United States the election of Barack Obama as its new president would project an image of decaying leadership in the United States (and on top of that Barack Obama is a rookie)

On top of that the world is already very aware of the United States fast economic decline and collapsing prestige and clout and since the rest of the world associate the African Continent with the image of political and economic failure that would just reinforce the perception that the entire United States political and economic system is in a state of complete decay.

In a nutshell: At this point what is really at stake in the coming US presidential election is the image that the United States and Americans want to project to the rest of the world regarding the current political and economic state of their country!

.
Amaral's blatant racism and extrapolation
written by Augustus, September 13, 2008
Mr. Amaral's racism is clear... I shall not dewell on the obvious issue... it's his affair.
yet, to attribute to RACE the behavior of an individual is plain stipitidy
Adolf Hitler was white - yet a monster
Stalin was white - another monster
Mao was yellow (Asian) - another monster
Pol Pot yello (Asian) - another monster
Chambelain (white & BRITISH) - A lame weakling
Biskark was white - yet a totallitaria militarisc

Now.. to compare BLACK African leaders to an American Educated individual of whatever race is IRRELEVANT and PLAIN STUPID

I'm very sorry for the blatant remark, but your commend is absolutely outrageous!!!!

smilies/angry.gif smilies/angry.gif smilies/angry.gif smilies/angry.gif
Ricardo Amaral
written by João da Silva, September 13, 2008
At the end of the day a lot of things regarding the United States it is about image and many people are having second thoughts about having a black president here in the United States at this time since most likely is going to surround himself with a circle of black advisors and project an image even less appealing to the rest of the world.


Ricardo, the above statement of yours and the stats you gave on the performance history of African leaders are extremely shocking to me. Somehow, you seem to demean the brain power of all the Afro Americans as well as Afro Brasilians. Even though I really don't care about Obama or McCain being elected as the next President of your adopted country, I am totally taken aback by your inconsistent political (as well as economical) views. As far as I remember, you were in favor of a Democratic candidate (Al Gore & Hillary- From the WASP establishment). After Hillary lost the Primaries to Obama , you changed your tune. I think it is JUST because Obama is BLACK, forgetting that he was the editor of HLR and to get this sort of post, he had to have some brain. Now you are supporting Nader and I wonder if you realize that Nader is a "Turco" in Brasilian lingo, in spite of his being an Nth generation American. So that leads me to believe that you care more about the color of the skin of a candidate and less about the "Brain Power" he packs.

I have a strong impression that if there is a black Presidential candidate with Brain Power and a dumb white one in 2010 elections in our country, you will promote the latter.

I see a sort of (not so) veiled racist streak in you and with this attitude, how do you expect to attract investors from the Middle East and Asia (especially the Chinese)? By calling them "Turcos" and "Slit eyeds"?

Once again, I want to stress that it hardly matters to me if Obama or McCain is the next POTUS, but is very important to know if you would object to a candidate who is a "Negão" in 2010 in Brasil.

A hypothetical question, since you are an ardent of Soccer and you want to fire Dunga. If Dunga and Pelé are our presidential candidates in 2010, whom would you vote for?
Appalling behavior of fellow Brazilian Americans
written by Augustus, September 13, 2008
One would have expected that most Brazilians emigrants, after spending sometime in the United States, might have assuaged his/her views on race relations, which is clearly not the case in light of Mr. Amaral's incontestable racist views... Indeed, presuming that the gentleman under consideration is blue eyed and very fair skinned, the immediate conclusion is that he must lie about his Latin American background in order to avoid the very discrimination to which EVEN I have been exposed immediately after my arrival... And I will confirm right here, that although I have (mercifully) never conceived, advocated or displayed any racist inclination, I will never deny my inherent classist attitude, which in Brazil was quite dramatic, but was – inevitably - substantially reduced as soon as I felt the effects of discrimination… Such disagreeable, ever present feelings were so significant, that my overall behavior and pre-disposition on many issues were irrevocably mollified… It sufficed to teach me the Universal lessons from life regarding the consequences of discrimination of any sort…

As a result, the sole logical conclusion is that Mr. Amaral must successfully cloud (with deception) his “equally inferior” Latin origins, which, under the discriminating eyes of white Americans is generally bestow upon all of us, regardless of former status, titles, and color... I suppose some of us will never learn the Universal lessons from Life!
Augustus
written by João da Silva, September 14, 2008
Mr. Amaral's racism is clear... I shall not dewell on the obvious issue... it's his affair.


No, it is not just his own affair. All the readers of his articles including the ones from Africa would like to know if he has anything against the educated Black leaders, just because of their skin color.After all he is trying to bring investments from China (yellows), Arabs (Turcos), etc; Remember that the money has no color , race or religious barriers!
Stop the Knee Jerking
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
Mr. Amaral is not making this up, merely reporting and analizing.

At this point in election chronology, some Democrats have been ahead in the double digit percentile and still lost.

Right now the candidates are tied, and barring unforeseen pitfalls, McCain will pull ahead. A Democrat would need to be experienced, known, and wartless to pull it off, even with some sort of Democrat October Surprise.

I am from L.A. and am well aware of the Bradley Effect. Everyone thought he was a shoo-in for Governor because people lied to the pollsters about their intentions in order not be be considered racist. Political Correctness has created the Bradley Effect. That was in 1982.

And don´t forget that the GOP still owns the Executive Branch, which can do all kinds of things between now and November.

Besides, why is it OK for almost 100% of blacks to vote for Obama, whereas merely recognizing the fact that a certain percentage of white folks won´t vote for this particular black candidate is enough to call the commentator a racist?

Ric's endorsement
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Ric - I suppose one should simply add your name to the list of known Racist Bloggers... After all, you ARE one of THEM... REPUBLICANS... the association kind of speaks for itslef
Ric - after thought
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Perhaps now you are reaching for your bible - I'm sure you access it dayly, to conjure up some type of prayer against me .... smilies/tongue.gif
It's all akin to black magic to me... Just a matter of terminology... smilies/grin.gif
Republicans
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
Yeah, I have been discriminated aginst for that. When I first voted in college in the East Bay (Berkeley) the old fart handling the paperwork noticed that I was from Orange County and made a bunch of derogatory comments. In retrospect, I should have complained but was too stupid to do so.
Some Background
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
On why Montana was recently thought to be a possibility for Obama and now has slipped away. We´ll be voting absentee in Montana this election instead of California, by the way.

The Montana governor got a lot of laffs at the Denver convention but made a fool of himself to the voters of Montana. Take my word for it.

Now, Sarah Palin. She was born in Sandpoint, Idaho. It´s on Highway 2 between Spokane, WA and the Flathead Valley of Montana (Glacier Park). Used to be just a village, but it has grown. Drive that two-lane road long enough and you will almost certainly hit a deer or elk or moose. It used to be the preferred route since it´s fairly flat. Fly over as I used to do all the time and you´ll see the area is mainly steep mountains with only tiny narrow spaces between them.

Now it´s better to go the I-90 over the passes, the Interstate to Missoula.

Everybody hunts and fishes. You´ll see a bunch of guys looking in the pickup bed for long periods of time staring at the elk someone just shot. Saying "huh" once in awhile. Moose are easy to shoot, like a cow, deer are harder and elk harder still.

Palin speaks to these people. They understand her. I have also spent time in Wasilla, where in February the sun comes up late, goes down early. Over in Pioneer Peak you never even see the sun because of the mountain.

Except for Salem, Portland, and Seattle-Tacoma, I see the GOP winning in places the Democrats have been counting on. Whether that´s enough to win the majority, I don´t know, but it´s a Whole ´Nuther Smoke (like Tiparillos).

McCain´s pick of Palin makes perfect sense to anyone who has flown Alaska, been a bush pilot, a cropduster, a carrier pilot, or flown floats in the backcountry. I´ve done three of those.

Not everyone makes the cut, for one thing. Not everyone can do it. And no matter what the manual says, sometimes you are on your own and have to stake it all on your reflexes, experience and gut. And risk it all but your confidence tells you it´s not really a risk, it´s skill.

McCain is doing what fighter pilots do, and it amounts to confusing the opponent. And he will win the dogfight.

Too cosmopolitan to understand the thirst for inocent animals // Rpublican murderous hypocresy
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Even more disgusting is claiming pride in hunting grounds for innocent creatures... In case Ric has missed, we are no longer in the Paleolithic.
All the "hunting" background of that horrible woman makes me further sick at the thought of the horrible people who "answer' by the label Republicans... The epitome of hypocrisy, discrimination, racism, and injustice, under the guise of their vile bible!
It reminds me of the racist FL legislator responsible for anti-gay legislation, caught in some public toilet providing "services" to black gentleman... Rather amusing... Rather hypocritical... Rather inhuman and REPUGNANT! Your kind, when elected, will simply provide the final touch for the complete ruin of the former glorious United States...
How Obama Could Have Been an Automatic Win
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
According to Dr. King´s niece, 25 percent of the US black population is missing due to abortion.

Roe v. Wade dates back to 1973. Fifteen million black fetuses have been aborted. Well over a third of all abortions are performed on black mothers.

In the same time period, Aids killed 200,000 blacks and violent crime, 300,000.

It´s not hard to see that blacks would be far greater than the current 12.7 of the US poplulation, since a multiplying factor would be involved, maybe as high as 20%.

And that might just have made the difference.

Except for Roe v. Wade and Plannned Parenthood.

Unintended consequences.

...
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
Right, save the whales and cut up the unborn chilluns.
non-existence PREFERABLE to SUB-existence
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Regardless of the race, ANY fetus developed and born into abandonment and misery would always be better off never seeing the light… just to make the hypocritical religious conscience of repugnant republicans!
Electoral College
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
Looking at the states considered toss-ups, I just realized how screwed the democrats really are. They tend to go down after the conventions, not up, and usually blow big leads in the last few weeks. And they are even or slightly behind. But what surprises is that New Mexico, Colorado, Michigan and Pennsylvania are considered toss-ups. NM, with Bill Richardson? Colorado, where their convention was held? Michigan, with the tragedy of Flint et al? Toss ups?

Watch Palin take northern Nevada. There´s more to Nevada than Las Vegas, just like there are a lot of Traverse Cities to balance out Detroit.
Ric
written by João da Silva, September 14, 2008
Mr. Amaral is not making this up, merely reporting and analizing.


How long is he going take to come out with final results?
...
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
Final results on Nov. 4.
JOAO - likely disappointment // RIC - urging for caution & self-control
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
It's possible that Mr. Amaral may not in a position to come out with any tangible results (for our esteemed Joao) in light of his proclivity to behave like a Chameleon. For those not familiar with the term, I would be more than delighted to display the definition I found according to Encarta Dictionary = a tree-dwelling lizard with long thin legs, a strong curled tail, a long sticky tongue, and THE ABILITY TO CHANGE COLOR. Native to: Africa, Madagascar, whose name in Portuguese is CAMALEAO...

The main problem with disclosing the above definition here lies on the fact that there are too many Republicans "blogging" around, and they are bound to follow their primitive hunting instincts and inadvertently attempt to shoot our dear Mr. Amaral whenever he changes colors... As such, we must make concerted efforts in warning our dear young Ric, as well as others of the same persuasion, to temporarily refrain from their irresistible urge to hunt...

You see, depending on Mr. Amaral's current "color" (without any racial undertone), it may be hard for him to feel comfortable with anything thing "final"... Hopefully Joao will not be exceedingly disappointed by such disagreeable, albeit likely, results...
Augustus
written by João da Silva, September 14, 2008
Hopefully Joao will not be exceedingly disappointed by such disagreeable, albeit likely, results...


I am exceedingly disappointed and will continue to be until Mr.Amaral explains to us what his current color is.
Reply to Joao da Silva
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 14, 2008
September 14, 2008

First I was never a supporter of Hillary Clinton at any time during this presidential campaign, and had been a supporter of Al Gore for the last 2 years until became obvious that he was not going to enter the presidential race.

You can read all about it at the following thread and there are 800 comments on that thread since August of 2006.

Al Gore - Democratic Party candidate in 2008
http://www.elitetrader.com/vb/...genumber=1


I also said all along on my postings that if Al Gore were not on the race then my second choice would be Ralph Nader.

By the way, Ralph Nader is the best qualified of the current presidential candidates by a mile.

He is a single man who works 18 hours per day, he is extremely honest and knows and understands in detail every issue that affects and is important to the average American and their daily lives.

If you want to describe Ralph Nader = Subastance regarding any important issue, honesty, integrity, outstanding intellect, and so on….

.
Reply to Joao da Silva and Augusto
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 14, 2008
September 14, 2008

The race subject is something that I did not want to go into detail, but people could not read between the lines and I had to spell it out.

I am not mentioning this from a racist point of view – first I had direct business relationship with Angola for many years, and when I made a proposal for economic development plan for Angola I had to learn a lot about the history of that country.

I made an honest effort in trying to help the Angolans improve their country and in an article that I wrote about Angola a few years ago I said that Brazil had the obligation to help Angola get back on their feet after the civil war ended in Angola.

When I was researching to write my two history books I learned a lot about slavery and the slavery trade. I understand the impact that slavery had in the African Continent and the connection to the Americas.

Even today many countries in Africa probably would meltdown into chaos and they are dependent on the Chinese and Indians from India to keep the business structure of many African countries going forward – the Chinese and the Indians are the business and traders who keep the economy of many African countries from total collapse.

And you can’t blame it on lack of money, and just look at Nigeria that country had a good cash inflow from oil revenues for a long time and that country still is a basket case.

Last Sunday I spent about 2 hours talking on the telephone with my cousin in Brazil, she is 90 years old, and she is a historian and she just published her 9th book about the history of our family in relation to the history of Brazil.

Her mind is like an encyclopedia and she remembers a lot of information about the history of Brazil.

She owns with 2 other cousins a famous farm around Barbacena, state of Minas Gerais. Her cousin lives on the farm and she goes and visits on a regular basis. The farm is considered a historical landmark and they are not allowed to change much regarding the various buildings that they have in that farm, and they have many people who comes to visit it like a museum.

On our last conversation she gave me a private lesson on the subject of slavery in Brazil – not only about the past but also the influence that still going on with the current generation of descendants of slaves. I learned a lot from her and I told her that she should write a book on that subject before the information is completely lost. It was very interesting a lot stuff that she told me.

Let me bring on another point. In Brazil soap operas are very popular and for many years these soap operas have been exported to many countries around the world.

A Brazilian soap opera usually last one year, then they start a new story. Some of these soap operas are about Brazilian history and some of the stories are about the subject of slavery.

People watch these soap operas day after day and they enjoy these stories, but at the same time the subject of slavery is being reinforced night after night. In these stories the black person is the slave and the white folks are their masters.

Without realizing these soap operas are reinforcing on peoples' minds not only the subject of slavery, but also the racial divide between the two segments of the population the blacks and the whites.

My ancestors were among the most influential people in Brazil regarding the process of ending the slavery system in Brazil.

Maybe because I have been exposed to all this material and experiences that I can see things that other people can’t see it.

When the subject of race comes up if you say anything then people call you a racist because in the world of most of these people only racists talk about that subject and that subject is considered Tabu.

But as you mentioned above that Barack Obama is well educated and he has a degree from Harvard University.

You are missing the point here. We are talking about image, and perception here. Let me give you an example.

The last trip that George W. Bush made to the African Continent and visited various countries. Every night the cameras were following him to document his trip and everywhere he went there were a few white folks including George W, Bush but the majority of the people were black since he was visiting these African countries.

A Barack Obama administration probably would send on a daily basis similar images around the world, but this time the images would be coming from Washington D.C.

Basically the rest of the world would look at the United States as if the US was just another African country and the global opinion about African countries is not good.

In a nutshell: A picture is worth a thousand words.

.
Reply to August
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 14, 2008
Now that you called me a racist then let’s go one step further on our discussion.

Let’s document the realities of life in many African countries and also here in the United States.

What I am talking about is the perception that most people have of these issues and how these issues are brought to their television programs on a daily basis.

For the last 40 years since television and cable, and satellite dishes became part of most people’s daily lives and they have been watching on their living rooms what has been happening around the world.

Let’s start with the African Continent:

The images that has been coming out of Africa on a regular basis year after year is an image of civil wars, genocide, complete chaos with criminal gangs roaming around completely out of control, a high degree of corruption, complete incompetence of leaders, a constant state of coup d’etat in that continent, illiteracy, poverty, despair, and so on…

Let’s see what is going on in the United States with the black population:

Total United States population: 304 million people


Age structure:
0-14 years: 20.1% (male 31,257,108/female 29,889,645)
15-64 years: 67.1% (male 101,825,901/female 102,161,823)
65 years and over: 12.7% (male 16,263,255/female 22,426,914) (2008 est.)


Black population Age Structure
0-14 years: 20.1% (8 million people)
15-64 years: 67.1% (27 million people) (male 13 million/female 14 million)
65 years and over: 12.7% (5 million people)


Ethnic groups:
White 79.96%, Black 12.85%, Asian 4.43%, Other 2.76%

White = 243 million people

Black = 40 million people

Asian = 13 million people

Other = 8 million people


Prison population in the United States = 2.3 million people.

Black population in prison in the US = 1.2 million people

Black population on parole in the United States = over 5 million people.

About 9 percent of the black population age 15 to 64 is in prison and another 38 percent of the population is on parole. Basically 48 percent of the male black population on the United States is in prison or on parole.

Today most black neighborhoods around the United States still are dangerous places where criminal gangs cause a lot of problems in cities such as Newark, NJ, New York City, Detroit, Cleveland, Los Angeles, Boston and so on….

And if you check the record of many black politicians that became mayor or governors here in the United States their records are nothing to write home about – if anything many of them are going to prison for wrong doing.


********


I want you to keep in mind that we are talking about black leaders who ruled countries around the world in the last few decades and the perception that people from around the world have about these leaders. These perceptions were built one step at the time – one crisis at time that have been broadcasted to our televisions and have reached us all with these images of civil war, genocide, all kinds of crime, drug dealing, political and economic meltdowns, corruption, incompetence, disease such as AIDS, illiteracy, poverty, and complete despair.

Since August accused me that I have the wrong perception of what has been happening in the last 40 years regarding black leadership around the world and it is possible that I have missed some of the positive side of the debate - I would like to ask Augusto to enlight me with the information that I have been missing and that he is aware of it.

Please give me some success stories and the outstanding black leaders who are doing a great job running their country – give me this information to build your case in favor of black leadership anywhere that I am not aware of.

By the way, perceptions are built over a long period of time by repeated and reinforced information on the daily news, on movies and so on….

.
Reply to Joao da Silva
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 14, 2008
Joao da Silva: "A hypothetical question, since you are an ardent of Soccer and you want to fire Dunga. If Dunga and Pelé are our presidential candidates in 2010, whom would you vote for?"


*****


Ricardo: I met Pele a number of times over the years and I admire Pele for all his accomplishments inside and outside the field and to answer your question I would vote for Pele if he was a candidate for president and Dunga was the other candidate.

.
Reply to Joao da Silva
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 14, 2008
I need to clarify one point here otherwise you people are going to be completely confused by what I have been saying.

Let’s go back to subject of image and perception.

What Pele represents to Brazil and to the rest of the world?

Pele = the ultimate in excellence, he is a legend that represents being outstanding. The entire world admires Pele for his accomplishments inside and outside the field. He has been a great ambassador for Brazil for the last 50 years.

Pele is unique in many ways and I am glad he is a fellow Brazilian citizen.

Pele does not have a Harvard degree, but during his travels around the world for the last 50 years that gives him a special education and a unique experience and point of view regarding how people live around the globe.

In the case of Brazil color would not be an issue regarding Pele since he is considered a legend and represents the ultimate in excellence around the world.

.
Mr Amaral - Perceptions & Assumptions
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Dear Sir

Firstly, it must be conceded that my interpretation of your original message triggered an emotional response whereby I may have jumped to the precipitated (most likely incorrect) conclusion that you bear racist inclinations…

After reading your extensive series of replies, I must follow my conscience and beg your pardon for so premeditated conclusion, although maintaining the view that your significant research support “racist extrapolations” in light of your attributing to an American citizen the qualities (correctly) accredited to several former African Leaders.

Yet, after digesting your detailed, extensive (and even admirable) explanation, I fully understood the intended crux of your message; that you referred exclusively to “perceptions” of American and perhaps even some Europeans (those with limited education and racist pre-disposition). Indeed, you have made an important point, whereby such perceptions – correct or otherwise – are unfortunately bound to play a significant role in the forthcoming elections in the United States of America.

Without any doubt, the African leaders you have quoted share an unfortunate nefarious, even brutal background, which could have play a significant part in the gradual development of a terribly negative overview of men and women which “happen” to share the same genetic background. Given the pre-existing, noteworthy racism of American (and also Brazilian – albeit more deeply ingrained to the point of being concealed), I would not be surprised if a substantial number of uneducated and/or rural white American voters are influenced by the very factors you have described.

Unlike you, on the other hand, regardless of any racial element (even when correctly equated), I would never consider refraining from supporting a great man – in this case Senator Obama – particularly in light of the crucial factors (and pre-dispositions) I have strongly outlined elsewhere… As you may recall, my strong, implacable anti-republican standpoint would never permit me to consider lending my support to third parties, which do not have any chance of reaching the presidency. Moreover, in the case of your preferred candidate, Mr. Nader has repeatedly (and shall continue to) play a minor role in any presidential election, and whose very candidacy simply decreases further the chance of the only feasible democratic candidate (for a republican victory would represent an unacceptable result). It is a shame that I must take this realistic (albeit limited) position, for I sincerely wish this country had a multiparty political culture which might enable anyone to consider supporting more “attractive” candidates, without further considerations…

At any rate, I must conclude this entry by reiterating my sincere apologies for misunderstanding your originally intended viewpoint, recognizing the logical analogies as the basis of perceptions, while expressing great sadness by recognizing its likely impact.
Realistic Position?
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
The realistic position is that Obama will lose.

Is your name Augustus or Invictus (William Ernest Hensley)?

This is sooo brazilian. "Não tem condições, né?" says the lady in the favela into the roving mike, and yet, guess what, tem, because nothing gets done and yet life goes on.

"Inaceitável", says the politician, and yet the policy stands and his party is forced to suck it up.


"Unacceptable result", you shudder thinking of a GOP win. So don´t accept it, already. Still going to happen. Get over it. What are you going to do, sue, or achar ruim?
ric - just what if?
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
I shall refrain from any further comments on this topic; thereby leaving you, to your own devices, to proceed on bragging, while brandishing so ignoble a hunting gear…

Yet, for your sake, based on so much certainty... You’d better be right!
Otherwise, you will indubitably become the subject of unrelenting laughing remarks!
Personally, at this stage of my life, my hopes are solely for those who might benefit from a democratic victory... Personally, I would hardly be affected...

Once again, considering the strength of your convictions, evidenced by so blatant a display of boasting victory, I shall be double sorry for you, in the event you are proven to be wrong... Just an ephemeral remark for further contemplation!
Not Gonna Eat Worms If Obama Wins
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
Indeed, anything can happen between now and election day.

And I´ve been wrong before.
Whatever happened to Ric's mantle of certitude?
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Pray tell what may have instigated so sudden a exhibition of wavering convictions…
I dare say it is rather too late for withdrawing all previous reckless displays of vehement triumph…
One is not permitted the luxury of having the gateau and eating it!
One ought not to indulge in the comforts of an eleventh-hour retreat!
RIC - The worms have are been set for service in the kitchen
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Rest assured that the worms have already been set in a lovely silver tray... The butler will follow instructions to place them in Ric's porcelain dish on November 4, should destiny provide alternate results...
Needless to say, such dish must be served cold, a la mode... I’m certain Jeeves will conjure up some lovely sauce to enhance your palate…
Ricardo Amaral
written by João da Silva, September 14, 2008
Thanks for your clarifications, especially regarding two hypothetical candidates (Dunga & Pelé) for 2010.

I don't think that either of them will be interested in standing for the post. Neither of them is a politician and both of them are self made people in an extremely competitive environment. Such people prefer to stay clear away from the dirty politics.

Brazil is no different from U.S with regards politics. Around 25,000 families control the politics of Brasil. Augustus is correct in saying when he made the following comment:

Given the pre-existing, noteworthy racism of American (and also Brazilian – albeit more deeply ingrained to the point of being concealed), I would not be surprised if a substantial number of uneducated and/or rural white American voters are influenced by the very factors you have described.


I would love to see a "Negão" as a candidate for our Presidency, but I don't think it would happen real soon. On the contrary, the American Establishment is far ahead of ours. They are staging a first generation black American as a candidate who would be a "Laranja" for them. Fortunately, we have plenty of "white laranjas" for the Brasilian establishment.

Regardless our differing opinions, thanks for your time.

sfgate.com, then search tutu
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
In light of some of Mr. Amaral´s comments of Africa, interesting to read Desmond Tutu´s article in today´s San Francisco Chronicle advising the US on how to inprove America´s image abroad, calling South Africa´s transition a big success story and spelling out how they did it.

"I went down into the garden of nuts to see the fruits of the valley..." ...by pulling up the SF Chronicle.

By the way, that McCain will win is my opinion. Any opinion on something as frangible as a presidential election weeks from now cannot be taken as an absolute given. But that´s how it looks from here.



...
written by João da Silva, September 14, 2008
In light of some of Mr. Amaral´s comments of Africa, interesting to read Desmond Tutu´s article in today´s San Francisco Chronicle advising the US on how to inprove America´s image abroad, calling South Africa´s transition a big success story and spelling out how they did it.


Finally you are catching the drift of Dnb´s arguments, eh ? It is all Dollar vs Euro. Believe me. Worth reading Ch.c´s comments on the economy under the other thread that talks about Delaware. Extremely long one, but highly enlightening. I think that Ch.c dictates his thoughts to his secretary who seems to be pretty good typist.

Btw, I tend to share the opinion of Forrest, Ch.c and Dnb about politicians in general and specifically about the ones in our respective countries.
Ric’s wavering so-called convictions…
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Vacillating…
Oscillating from Conviction to ambiguity …

BEFORE - “One reason that McCain-Palin will win is that the gut-wrenching hatred that the leftist media feels for the GOP candidates will continue to find its way into what they write” (Sept 7)

AFTER - “Not Gonna Eat Worms If Obama Wins” … “And I’ve been wrong before” (Sept 14)
---------------------------------/

BEFORE = “"Unacceptable result", you shudder thinking of a GOP win. So don´t accept it, already. Still going to happen. Get over it. What are you going to do, sue, or achar ruim?” (Sept 14 – a.m.)

AFTER = “Any opinion on something as frangible as a presidential election weeks from now cannot be taken as an absolute given. But that´s how it looks from here.” (Sept 14 p.m.)
------------------/

Hmmmmmm! Perhaps Ric is the Chameleon, after all...

Hopefull young ric will love the cold worms…
Perhaps ric may view them (prior to digesting them) as the famous Klingon dish “qagh” (quoting discussions on the topic: “… the important thing is timing, to prepare the gagh so they absorb the sauce thoroughly, but are still alive long enough to be eaten”
smilies/grin.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/wink.gif
Every Expectation of Success
written by Ric, September 14, 2008
Putting it in IFR terms, we´re cleared for the approach, passed the outer marker, blue lights, coming up on the middle, localizer OK, nailed the glideslope, looks good.

But we still have no visual, everything at minimums including RVR, we´ll make it, unless there´s a pig on the runway, or a truck crossing the hash marks, or some un-notam´d construction, or(is some areas) varmints like deer or meese. Mooses.

You never know until you touch down, taxi, and kill the engines, Rogério?
Success spoiled by worms within the pig – VFR required
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Unfortunately, the Air Traffic Controllers failed to see the pig…
And the pig was vomiting live worms…
It turns out Moses had been sent by his God to deliver the worms inside, kept alive inside the pig, which was placed by divine instructions so that the pilot was forced to eat them!

Knowing that the pilot would be compelled to adopt VFR, and thus held ultimately responsible for navigation vis-à-vis obstacle clearance and traffic separation using the see-and-avoid concept, Divine wisdom foresaw that a good republican pilot had no alternative but defer… And eat the live worms sent by his God!
Whatever happened to COSTINHA
written by Augustus, September 14, 2008
Where is Costinha when one needs his input?
Forget about Ric's Racists issues...
written by dnbaiacu, September 15, 2008
And the obvious fact that he doesn't realize YET that all of these so called black "leaders" are puppets and quota fillers. They all have been since colonization. Knowing this themselves , they can't help but be corrupt for the most part because a sincere person would NOT take those positions..
It's all very simple. Why is everyone making it hard.
As for Ric's racism? ... It's laughable. It's a "BEDROOM" issue for him. I won't delve into this any further. But envy can only explain the hate. You only hate and envy what you are threatened by. And since the the threat is OBVIOUSLY NOT ECONOMIC,,, then guess what?
People with this issue just have to learn how to make up for where they think they are lacking. There are plenty of books on the subject. And try sticking with one partner for awhile. Learn to satisfy "her" or whoever.
When you right ESSAYS on black this and black that without recognizing the ROOT CAUSE ,, you have serious issues.
I dare you challenge me on this Ric. I will CUT you in HALF! And I don't think you want to embarrassed on this panel. You have revealed enough of yourself. Quit while you are ahead. smilies/wink.gif smilies/wink.gif smilies/wink.gifWorse , you are not even American but you have a heck of a lot of interest in black american stats . Borderline obssesive considering what you should know as a brazilian about slaverys legacy in the U.S and Brazil..
Hatred for the black male is not political. Not economic. But it's there.. So guess why?....What other imagined threat exists?
Ric,, go look in a full view mirror NUDE! And get over it. And get educated.
smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif
Hello Joao and Augustus..
written by dnbaiacu, September 15, 2008
I've been dealing with our friend IKE this weekend. I wish I was online to witness Rics tirades on black stats earlier. It is good to see that arrogance and outright ignorance doesn't prevail on this panel. I couldn't be quiet and let vocal "barely trying to be politically correct" racists rant without being rebuffed. These wannabe KKK penis cutting off looney toons are everywhere I see. They need to get a grip!
So glad to be back on board.. Albeit obviously very LATE smilies/angry.gif
dnbaiacu
written by João da Silva, September 15, 2008
Hello Joao and Augustus.


Hi there lad. Glad that you are alive and well and probably you picked the posts of Lord Augustus(aka Gussie, Auggie, Genious, etc;-never before in the history of this blog, has anyone picked up so many titles and nicknames in such a short of time)and me.

Forget about Ric's Racists issues...


I think that you are confusing Ric with Ricardo. As far as I know, Ric is an American and Lord Augustus nor I were suspecting that he is a racist smilies/grin.gif

It was Ricardo who came out with stats about the leadership performance of those "puppets" in the "dark" continent. So we wanted clarifications on this issue and Ricardo provided with them.

As for the "Heated" exchange between Ric and Lord Augustus, it is a totally a different issue. You might like to re-read the comments and come out with your own brilliant ones smilies/cheesy.gif

Glad you survived the Hurricane and welcome back.
You cannot look at politics superficially....
written by dnbaiacu, September 15, 2008
As if the people's opinions and perceptions of images really count. If that were the case it would have NEVER BEEN NECESSARY TO THROW BUSH IN OFFICE.
Would the "hidden establishment" bother to spend this much money on a "Laranja" with this mess of an economy , only to have Republicans with a globally unpopular ideaology take the election??? Ric give your race more credit! They are the "intellectually superior" ones right?
You are so racist , you actually think intelligent people care what the color of a president. Only IGNORANT people care. Intelligent manipulators work to keep the deception alive. smilies/wink.gif

The PEOPLE have to look like they have won THIS time for the "establishment" to get majority support for the global intolerance which is just ahead of us, disguised as the WAR ON TERROR. Which will not end . Enter World War III basically. War generates profits????? Get it?! Faltering GLOBAL economy. You need a global war that doesn't exactly LOOK like a "nationalistic war", because VOILA'! We have the UNTIED NATIONS.
McCains out. He's acting. And since you are SO BIG on images and perception you should be able to see this. But you are so caught up in a black NOT being President for personal reasons you have yet to psycho-analyze for yourself , that you completely miss the game here.
Lehman, Merrill Lynch , AIG,Freddie and Fannie... GONE.!.. Guess to who?
The Federal Reserve Bank. A left sided banking cartel.!That runs both "pseudo parties"..
This is complete ILLUSION. Open your eyes. Get rid of your fears.
"Ask your doctor if Leveitra" is right for you smilies/wink.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/grin.gif
Joao..
written by dnbaiacu, September 15, 2008
Yes,, I am referring to Ricardo Amaral,, got confused with the names and confused with what is going on here
Lehman, Merrill Lynch , AIG,Freddie and Fannie... GONE.!.. Guess to who?
The Federal Reserve Bank

I got a little carried away with who is going where. For now the Fed doesn't want to own Lehman. But I think we all get the point. This wealth is being transferred to and ultimate entity at some point. It always is. The name on the front sign means very little.
IKE was "inconvenient" for most of us.. It could have been a lot worse. As for Galveston?.. Barrier islands aren't barrier islands for nothing. You take a huge risk living on one. The people that evacuated were smart. Life goes on,if you have it. You live through things and learn what you can from them.
Personally I want to be less emotionally dependent on "electronic" distractions . smilies/cheesy.gif Events like this take you to your core smilies/smiley.gif
dnbaiacu
written by João da Silva, September 15, 2008
Worth taking a few minutes and reading ALL the comments made by Ch.c under the first two articles in this site. Namely "Coming up in Brasil: Dilma vs Serra" and "Brasil declares Delaware......"

Probably, he is sleeping still after working all through the night yesterday. But I am watching the drama unfolding re the stock markets. Is it going to be a "dark" or "black" Monday? I think we will know only tomorrow.
Joao
written by dnbaiacu, September 15, 2008
I will see you over there. Enough politics with racial overtones
One question
written by siemprejulia, September 15, 2008
Some of you seem quiet enlightened here.
So I'm surprised that you are not talking about vote fraud. I don't mean just the past two (s)elections, where it seems quite obvious, but how the entier US system is set up. This is hardly a democracy, I call it a plutocracy.
By the time they decided to give the vote to women, you had to have big financial backing to run for office. Now it's much worse, as this entire country, practically ,is controlled by big money.

Second, we are the only country in the world to have the Electoral College. One more form of plutocratic control.

And third, I think that voting is a kind of theater here in the U.S.
to make people think they live in a democracy. It is as close to mass participation as you can get (unless you count church, football and the 4th of July) people spend money, energy, time, get stressed out are glad it's over, and then go back to sleep. I often think that not voting, or at least seeing the system for what it is, is the first step in waking up. Then we could actually work together in groups to make some concrete changes.

Can anybody say 'General Strike?'
Siemprejulia
written by dnbaiacu, September 15, 2008
EVERYTHING you just wrote was on target. EVERYTHING LOL.. It's incredible. So simply put.
I have concluded that politics have just as much an influence as religious belief, or believing in evolution. At the end of the day people believe what they want to believe despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. It's this human need to have to "believe in something".
I guess we can all point fingers and say it gets the best of us. It's amusing smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif
Would it be OK
written by Ric, September 16, 2008
If I sorta liked John McCain partly because some of his ancestors lived on my family´s land in the Highlands? Or because his family also suffered at the hands of the Campbells? Or because I know they had to change their name after moving to Ireland, and some other facts about them?

Would that be OK, or would it be totally out of the question? Would that subject me to the same kind of cyber foaming at the mouth that Amaral has been subjected to above (with no attempt to refute anything he said with contasting numbers, only ad hominem attacks)?

Would the PC police arrest me, would that be Probable Cause for a Hate Crime? In your mind? In your dreams?

The drivel written above against the numbers presented is an example of why it is considered good business to lie to pollsters and keep your conclusions based on empirical knowledge to yourself. And that trend is likely to continue to grow.

I still waiting for someone to give me a presentation about Black leadership....
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 16, 2008
I still waiting for anyone to prove me wrong on what I said above and give a presentation showing that black leadership did an outstanding job building a country around the world - any country, anywhere.

I gave a long list of bad black leadership and if I had more time I probably could double that list with black leaders who belong to the second tier.

Show me black leadership and an improving economy creating jobs and a solid middle class - lifting all boats and improving the lives of their citizens.

I can list 30 countries with incompetent and bad black leadership all over the world and I challenge the people who criticized me to just give me one name on their list to make their case in favor of black leadership anywhere.

And saying that Barack Obama will be the first one is not an acceptable answer.

.
And Please...
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 16, 2008
Give me facts, name of black leaders who did a good job running any country, anywhere.

If calling me a racist is your only argument on this subject then you have reinforced and have helped me make my point.

.
Here´s One
written by Ric, September 16, 2008
Edwin James Barclay.
Thanks dnbaiacu
written by siemprejulia, September 16, 2008
Thanks for your feedback!
I live in a liberal town on the West Coast but pay a lot if I open my mouth....maybe the problem is American dichotomy. To most folks there is only liberal or conservative and going outside of either one does not exist.
When I lived in Spain we argued - hard - about everything.
In Rio most people didn't want to talk about anything controversal, but at least they did it with grace and good humor - two very Brazilian characteristics.
I'm going a little crazy here, back in the US where most folks are ignorant and arrogant.
A deadly combination....
...
written by João da Silva, September 16, 2008
I'm going a little crazy here, back in the US where most folks are ignorant and arrogant.
A deadly combination....


Yeah, I agree with you. Not like us, well informed, polished and highly sophisticated.
...
written by João da Silva, September 16, 2008
Edwin James Barclay.


I was born after the WW2 and hence I did not have the pleasure of meeting Mr.Barclay.
Liberia
written by Ric, September 17, 2008
No, of course you didn´t know Barclay. But Amaral asked that one be named, not that one had to have met him or her. I had to really think on this one.

Liberia really discouraged me. Frankly I just don´t get discouraged. Ever. But a country well organized, their FAA just like ours, years of stability, then tribalism took over and people eating each other. And you think, if they can´t make it, who can?

Haiti was the richest nation in the Americas under the French masters. Maybe they deserved what happened to them. But now it´s the poorest in the Americas. I hestitate even to mention Haiti, but there you are.....
Ric
written by João da Silva, September 17, 2008
I had to really think on this one.


I really did not want to name Liberia, though I remembered its history and Barclay AFTER you mentioned his name. The thing is that the African countries where the English had colonized, like Rhodesia,Kenya, etc; were doing very well till their independence after the WW2. Then the populism and tribalism took over, as in the case of Liberia (and Zimbabwe). However, S.Africa took a long time to get rid of its Apartheid system and Nelson Mandela does deserve credit for accomplishing it. S.Africa did not make the mistake of kicking out the white farmers like Zimbabwe did nor dismantled the system of government.It is one of the most interesting countries I have ever visited I think it is going to consolidate itself as the leader of Africa in a few years (along with Kenya, may be?). I have run into some highly educated black professionals trained there itself or in England.May be in a few years, we will see Mugabe gone and Zimbabwe bouncing back as the "Food basket" of that region. As for Nigeria, Angola, Mozambique, Congo, etc; I do not have much hope!

Anyway, though I had promised myself not to enter into this thread,your mentioning about Barclay of Liberia did induce me to comment!! Thanks for refreshing my memory.












Reply to Ric
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 17, 2008
You found one.

Edwin James Barclay (1930 – 1944)
President of Liberia

On my posting I mentioned Patrice Lumumba and I thought that most people would not know who he was and you went even further back in time. (He was a good black leader but was assassinated in a matter of months)

I confess this is the first time I saw his name anywhere and I had to Google his name to find out about his story.

Anyway, I am sure very few Americans black or white ever heard about this fellow.

But the image of Africa that I am talking about has been shaped by the television images that we have coming to our living rooms on a daily basis and also by films produced by Hollywood.

When I got my cable system here in the New York area around 1980 - the reason I had to get cable was because the place where I lived at the time had a very bad reception even with the antena on top of the building. Very few people had cable at that time and cable was taking its first steps - and that was just 28 years ago.

In the following years more and more people got connected to cable TV and the number of channels multiplied accordingly.

We can say that just in the last 20 years cable reached the masses and people started watching TV 24/7 and people started watching what was happening around the world and many times live broadcasts.

This is the period that influenced peoples perceptions, and shaped their views regarding Africa - and these images were reinforced over and over again.

The image that the world has of Africa has been shaped by the people who were in the news on a regular basis and the list of black leaders that I listed above represent the names that people associate with black leaders of Africa and also Haiti.

People are used to see genocide, civil wars, economic chaos, famine, Aids, gangs roaming around like in Somalia, and Sudan - incompetent leaders such as Robert Mugabe, Idi Amin, Mobutu Sese Seko, most of the leaders of Nigeria - all these guys devastated their countries one way or another. These fellows symbolize what global opinion thinks of African leaders.

And please don't forget that Africa today would be in complete chaos if the Chinese and Indians were not there keep the economic structure barely alive in many countries.

.













How opinions are formed?
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 17, 2008
I wrote the following a few years ago in one of my articles:

...How opinions are formed?

The government, the public relations people, the spin doctors and the media in general know how the public's opinions are formed by the media, which repeat a story over and over until the majority believe it, and how polls reflect what people have been told by the media.

If you have been watching television on a regular basis can you tell what is real news and what is misinformation?

.
...
written by Ric, September 17, 2008
By developing a sufficiently cynical view of the cosmos.

Assuming that most people including media types are out for themselves and may be on the make.

And these days, by tracing stories to their source via the web.
How do people decide who they are going to vote for?
written by Ric, September 17, 2008
They say there are two things you don´t want to see made:sausage and legislation.

Maybe a third would be the decision process before an election.

Sarah Palin creates interest among hunters, Native Americans, people who like snow sports, classic Mustang owners, evangelicals, basketball fans, those concerned about oil, and on it goes.

Here´s one I haven´t heard discussed.

Her husband owns a Piper Cub, been in the family for years. On floats. Doesn´t fly it as often as he would like to. They named their kid Piper. That´s brand loyalty.

Where were Piper Cubs made? Lockhaven Pennsylvania. There´s a Piper museum there, but the factory closed years ago. Only 10,000 people, located in the center of the state. Williamsport, PA, where the Lycoming engines were made, 30,000 people. And the prop people, the component people. All around the area. They remember.

I don´t know how many votes all this is worth, but I guarantee you, some. Can´t hurt.

And the question remains, can McCain/Palin take Pennsylvania?
To Ricardo Amaral and ANYONE that agrees with him
written by dnbaiacu, September 17, 2008

Show me black leadership and an improving economy creating jobs and a solid middle class - lifting all boats and improving the lives of their citizens


YOU CANNOT FIND ANY.. And simply because you are not meant to.
Personally I could care less that Europeans dominant the global system. Someone has to.. But this is EXACTLY the point FORIEGN POLICY. So it makes absolutely no sense bringing up stats about what black leadership has or hasn't done. In the end they are all PUPPETS, LARANJAS in the bigger game.
What gets me is that MOST people know this. YOU obviously don't. The stats are a waste of time.
Obama is being PIMPED. He is NOT intended to LEAD the country. The actual LEADERS who none of us know just who they are , are pulling the strings.
Maybe it is just that fact that is hard for people that think like you to accept.
YOU could be President , whoever you are , and it wouldn't make a bit of difference.
All your stats are showing is that you spend a lot of time on something that is a NON-ISSUE in a silly attempt to say "white leadership" is better.
They are still leading , so why are you worried about it?????
But what's actually pretty funny smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif is that blacks aren't your percieved threat (at least not in that area smilies/wink.gif)
Moneywise,,, worry about the Chineese. Better yet the Arabs if you want to bring it closer to Brazil.
It's a LEFT world now. Obama is NOT a leader. He is a puppet. You should be glad that Vanity has lured this guy up there.
All of this is deduced to
VAIN black folks
PROUD white folks
And EVERYONES FEAR
These are all SPIRITUAL issues. And everyones bent on solving it POLITICALLY. Which is ultimately the MASS DECEPTION smilies/wink.gif smilies/wink.gif
Wake Up Everyone smilies/smiley.gif
Siemprejulia
written by dnbaiacu, September 17, 2008
I'm going a little crazy here, back in the US where most folks are ignorant and arrogant.
A deadly combination....

Refreshing to have you on board. It amazes me how some can't see through the obvious. But like you say, the arrogance ( and NOT just in the U.S) completely distorts thinking in respects to politics. You have to objectively approach it AS A GAME first. And THEN see how it is played.
Now race and sex cards are being played to the hilt. And people of both races are falling for it. Obama and McCain consistently say the game is global now, and some still aren't getting it and are fixated on appearances on way or the other. The fact is it doesn't matter WHO is president.Enter Obama. Enter Hillary. Enter Palin. Enter elderly McCain. If you want to get into appearances , McCain LOOKS pathetic. And the photographers are notably making sure that stays the case. PROVING there is a machine behind this whole thing. There is NEVER an ugly , technically off , shot of Obama. THIS is the image perception people should be noticing. NOT that since he is BLACK and BLACK leaders are globally known to be INCOMPETENT, THIS is the reason he WON'T be president. That's absolutely absurd! On the contrary that is probably the reason HE WILL be PUSHED through the door.
The economy is getting worse by the day. That will ruin McCains platform if the election depends on the general mindset. Which you and I both know it really doesn't. The FEDERAL bank is continuining it coup of the country. And will sell the U.S to the United Nations for it will have no other choice.
Obama will have pom poms in his hand.
This is the probable future.
Ask the Pope smilies/wink.gif
And an ASIAN UN Secretary General smilies/wink.gif
This is comical
The voting game
written by siemprejulia, September 17, 2008
you're right, dnbaiacu, most Americans can't see the forest. And I speak like this because I am one; second generation. I lived in Europe for 4.5 years, Brazil for more than 8 - as I'm sure you're aware, I know children in Brazil who understand how the world works better than some US college graduates! They are not as segregated from adults as they are here, which I think may be one reason why.

I came back to the States with more clarity than I've ever had in my life and a huge desire to learn. Which is probably why I can't seem to fit back in to the American way of life.

The mutual respect on this blog is impressive; I haven't found it on indymedia or any of the progressive blogs I go to,where I've been called all kinds of names for writing about sexism and racism or just for spouting my views. So, parabens para voces!

You're right about the photo selections, the newspapers here in Oregon did terible shots of Hillary, every single day, while they hide things like Obama's graying hair or fatigue. Hillary came here to speak and she had lost her voice but looked fabulous. They must have to work hard to get such bad shots of her...

I'm sure they will give the presidency to Obama. And then very little will change. Obama and Biden are so pro-war, pro-big business that we'll have a young dynamic man in the White House but our lives will be s*it! No one is talking about Biden and his Bankruptcy bill or his huge support for the Iraq Invasion, Obama's votes against class action suits, for coal and nuclear power, or his 'mentor' Joe Lieberman.

This is the worst time for me since I've been back. Except for two other worst times: 911 and Katrina. I keep hoping for something, some kind of public outrage, some kind of uprising.

The silence is defeaning.

dnbaiacu
written by João da Silva, September 17, 2008
Your two latest comments are very interesting and thought provoking. I am going to highlight some keywords and phrases you used.

YOU CANNOT FIND ANY.. And simply because you are not meant to.

FORIEGN POLICY

In the end they are all PUPPETS, LARANJAS in the bigger game.

The actual LEADERS who none of us know just who they are , are pulling the strings.

Moneywise,,, worry about the Chineese. Better yet the Arabs if you want to bring it closer to Brazi

Ask the Pope And an ASIAN UN Secretary General

If Lord Augustus reads these keywords, he would concur with us and probably come out with his own pungent comments . smilies/wink.gif

BTW, where is Augustus?
Siemprejulia
written by dnbaiacu, September 17, 2008
You have the tone of someone who sounds objective and sincere. And likes to keep it real. No wonder you got opposition on other less mature blogs. I am relatively new to blogging. But if the threads here are more mature?????...Whoa .LOL Actually I do think we do well here considering there are so very opposing views.
I don't vote.. That is my political/faith based position. NEUTRALITY. But most certainly NOT apathetic. I am on the side of theology BUTbased on as much Truth biblically as possible. That whole statement would clash with many..But so be it.. I expect it.
I try to respect the opinions of others. But I won't let anyone get away with semi disguised racist remarks. That irks me. Nor will I be silent when some challenge the Bible. Someone has got to stand up to a lot of the ignorance and arrogance that is out there. Otherwise you'd have many thinking that a lot of these "popular" views are the order of the day. NOT.
If you haven't already,, do research on the Federal Reserve Bank. The North American Union. And the Council on Foreign Relations.
I liked you input on the make-up artistry and photography tricks to manipulate public opinion. It is so obvious. My eye is a little trained in that area.. But I think that if pointed out to the untrained eye it is easily noticable what is happening.
The new generation has been trained to be silent. America has been experiencing a "dumbing down" in its schools for decades now. It's a generation of the clueless now. You HAVE to think out of the box now to understand any of this. And FIRST of all you have to WANT to know. If not, you just don't get it.
I knew something was happening, and happening fast when I observed just about everyone "getting a house". Then I went to brazil for 3 years and watched the dollar steadily decline. I came back to sell my properties in a nick of time. Just barely! Now I am still chasing a falling dollar trying to get back to Brazil before the dollar eventually plummets. This recent upswing is temporary I think.
The steady stream of negative economy news helps the Lefts position. And they KEEP saying the "GOVERNMENT" is bailing this entity out and that entity out. SO MISLEADING. smilies/angry.gif
I like to encourage people to THINK for themselves and not get caught up in the hype no matter what your political leanings are , because it is all GAME. Only this will save many a big headache.
But you know,,, most people like drama .LOL. I may even be one of them. lol. All I ask is let's share some drama we can all really learn from , besides statistics on "bad black leadership". Or trying to debunk 2 to 3 books that have obviously impacted the world at large and you never even "studied" them.
If there is racism detected or anti Intelligent Design,,I am on board. Not expecting ANYONE to agree with me. But I won't be silent. smilies/wink.gif
Please continue to keep posting. I really learn a lot from the bloggers here. Everyone is cool to listen to here. And I actually think that most have quietly decided not to make personal attacks, as if it matters when you don't even know the person Lol.
There is a genius on this panel. I won't name him. smilies/smiley.gif
Also a great "arbitrator" and he knows who he is smilies/smiley.gif
I'm the "religious whacko in a cu'" lol smilies/cheesy.gif
There are a few other geniuses that show up occasionally. But when the appear , it is a bang. And they all have varied ways of thinking. It is amazing.
Yes, Mr Amaral...you are quite the racist!
written by Adrian Erik, September 17, 2008
Give me facts, name of black leaders who did a good job running any country, anywhere.

If calling me a racist is your only argument on this subject then you have reinforced and have helped me make my point.


Oh my dear! What have we here? What sorry spittle sprays from your mouth, Mr Amaral. When we talk leaders, shouldn't we talk about what is "being led."

I would wager the worst of Africa against the worst of your Popes. The whole sordid lot. I would wager more lives were lost by the arrogance and incompetence and corruption of your Holy Sees than the all of Africa combined.

So, what should we say then, that Italians ain't s**t...since that's who the majority of them were?

Or, are we going to talk about the context of post-Roman Empire Europe, the Dark Ages, the mis-named Renaissance and quasi-aptly named Enlightenment to analyze Europe's slow emergence out of barbarism (fueled by a great infusion of Moorish knowledge teaching the dumb, caucasians of the then clueless Europe).

Hey...no criticism here. Much respect to the Neanderthals. Though it took nearly a millenium, they overcame their tribal bloodbaths (oops...I'm talking about Europe...not Africa...aren't I?) and have done some wonderful things.

(a big hand clap to Europe)

So...now your question is why hasn't Africa (after barely 40 years casting off Leopold's chopping off of hands and Firestone's rape of Liberia rubber trees and after Germany's decimation of the Hereros in Namibia and after the English's slaughter of the Zulus and after the upheaval of an entire continent -- one of whose countries is equal in land size to all of Europe -- you ask why they haven't done in 40 years of freedom what it took you motherf**kers a millenium to achieve?


Is that your question...sir?

And you had to google Lumummba? Lumummba! Did you google Biko? Nyerere? How about Dr. Eric Williams?

And all of this 'African' talk to make a tenuous link to an American...Obama?

Yes, unfortunately, Africa is still dealing with national borders, created at the whim of Europe, to serve the interest of Europe. (kinda like the s**t that's happening in the Balkans. Oops...they're white, aren't they?)

You made a statement about black mayors in America. In jail? I would like you to back that up. Mayor Goode. Mayor Street. Mayor Nutter. Google them, chump. There are over 1800 black mayors in America and some of their cities are prizes. Gems. Much better run than Rio.

And I would choose the education and vision of nearly 90% of the black leaders in the Caribbean (Trinidad, Barbados, Grenada St Vincent St Lucia) to 99% of the white 'visionaries' leaders created in South America.

(after all, wasn't it a reliance on single product exports to a high-paying America that kept your economy from falling apart)

You guys are still learning. If you take come advice from Musuveni of Uganda, you might get it together. Or even from Brazuca's Tutsi in Rwanda.

What an ass you are.

Is this all it takes to feign intelligence?

Gotta go!

Welcome me back!
...
written by Ric, September 18, 2008
Wouldn´t it be better to welcome your front?
Vincies
written by Ric, September 18, 2008
If you like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, or St. Lucia, be sure to get the movie Water. It´s not new but still funny, filmed partly in that area, I have the DVD.

Get in among the people as we did and you will find that the song Day-O is right on the money in the banana belt.

Do not attempt to take off toward the east no matter what the wind is doing, take off away from the mountain headed west.

And don´t forget Canouan.

And keep trying to remember the names of those really successful presidents of the countries of Africa. Use a search engine and see what you get. Wishing you well. See a therapist about the conflicts, issues and internal foment.
Good info Adrian
written by dnbaiacu, September 18, 2008
Very good. I wouldn't waste any more time on that though. Their issues are beyond what it appears on the surface.
The info was good though.
What's funny is this is exactly the type of distracting momentum this election is supposed to foment. smilies/wink.gif
Joao
written by dnbaiacu, September 18, 2008
The election is weeks away.. But it will probably seem like days with all that is going on. This board is going to very interesting POST election. It is amazing how things can happen so fast. smilies/smiley.gif
I hope to see you ,Augustus, Adrian and Siemprejulia on another interesting thread. This one is going "you know where". smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/angry.gif smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/angry.gif
Reply to Adrian Erik
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 18, 2008
First sorry to disappoint you but I am not a religious person. I just attend church services when somebody is getting married or I have to attend a funeral of a friend or relative.

I did not have to Google about Patrice Lumumba or Mobutu Sese Seko.

Lumumba was an important African leader, and Mobutu was one of the worst dictators of any African country – during his tenure as dictator of Zaire (Congo) the entire infrastructure of that country collapsed – he left behind just the carcass of the country that he had inherited when he took power.

Mobutu and Robert Mugabe represent the worst Africa has to offer they are symbol of corruption, incompetence, chaos, and total failure.

Yes I made a comment about black mayors.

It does not matter that there are 1800 black mayors in the United States as you suggested.

At the end of the day the black mayors that get all the headlines and give the perception and the image to the entire group are the black mayors that are on the news on a regular basis such as the mayor of Detroit that is going to jail, or Marion Barry the former mayor of Washington D.C. that also had problems with the law, or mayor Gibson from Newark who also had problems with the law, or Newark mayor Sharpe James who is also in prison

These were the black mayors who got a lot of news coverage about them.

In my opinion both candidates John McCain and Barack Obama are second-rate candidates and I don’t care for either of them.

I am voting for Ralph Nader in November – here is a candidate with substance (meaning that he knows in detail any subject that is important for the daily lives of most Americans) – He is very intelligent, smart, savvy, has integrity, has been an environmentalist for a long time, and he has a lot of relevant experience – he works 18 hours per day and understand about all the economic issues that are broken here in the United States.

.
No Comment
written by Ric, September 18, 2008
John Conyers, Ron Dellums, William J. Jefferson, Cynthia McKinney, Adam Clayton Powell Jr, Charles B. Rangel, Maxine Waters.
Nader
written by Ric, September 18, 2008
Best political ad of the season:votenader.org/index.html, the click the parrot.

The parrot is Nader´s Brazilian political friend, and advisor.

Good ad.
...
written by siemprejulia, September 19, 2008
I didn't mean everyone on this blog is mature, I am not one to judge that, but the respect for very diverse opinions here seems strong. That's what's missing on indymedia, although I get a lot from reading the articles and posts.

You're smart to go back to Brazil, dnbaiacu. Is it true that the economy is doing better? A lot better? It was hard when I was livuing there, I went through 4 or 5 quedas do real. Everyone was dying to come here and I worked hard to maintain my work and finally get residency there. Now it's long expired, and the dollar is expiring, and I wish I knew what to do.

Where do you all go for info on Brazil? Suggestions greatly appreciated!
Augustus… ist zurück/ est retourné / retornou / is back
written by Augustus, September 19, 2008
Ladies and Gentlemen
I've finally returned home (after a minor trip out of town) and look forward to catching up with so many views and opinions.

I'm particularly delighted with Dnb's victorious battle against IKE, along with Siemprejulia re-emergence, as this blog lacked the moderating and enlightening views of the (so-called) "fairer sex".
siemprejulia
written by dnbaiacu, September 19, 2008
This magazine is by far the best I have seen with info about Brazil. Besides this I just the local newspapers of Salvador on line. A Tarde e Correio da Bahia.

Brazil is experiencing the "pseudo-prosperity" (?) the U.S had during the "everyone can get credit" days. It is funny to watch history repeating itself in another country. I try to help my cousins understand what is happening. But it still doesn't stop them from maxing out their credit cards or signing over their salaries. A practice I couldn't believe existed when I was informed about it.
My guess is that in some point in the future whatever debt anyone carries they will have to answer to it some kind of way with a pledge of allegiance to the state to make things easier on them. Those that refuse to pledge allegiance one way or another will complicate their financial position. And these actions on the part of the "Fed" and other "central banks" who are today bailing , and buying everyone out.(owning), will give the much control over the lives of the consumer.
This is the only explanation for LURING nations, enterprises and individuals into historically unparalleled debt. There is going to be some type of nationalistic price and demand to pay all in the name of the global war on terror.
Everyone knows there is truth to this when they hear it. But no one wants to talk about it.
Something as simple as greed. (that's what they want to blame it on) has entrapped everyone into this mess. But the hidden global establishment designed it this way.. This is NO accident.
The timing of this recent financial meltdown couldn't be more perfect in favor of the Left. And it is so funny how they don't even bother to dot a minority or two in McCain's backdrop audience. Now who is going to vote for the regime that not only appears to be the reason for the current economic situation . But also that during a public address also looks like a KKK rally? No diversity whatsoever. It is so obvious how the public is being manipulated. Everything is so predictable it's comical.
I am currently riding this wave of the weakening Real or strengthing Dollar. We have ask Ch.c which it is.lol smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif
I am moving back to Brazil to simplify my life. If you stick to the basics in Brazil, just focus on relationships, your health and spirituality (not necessarily in that order) your fine. And of course, that is if you are coming from here with some change. I do understand that it is not so simple growing up there , trying to "get" some change. But I intend to go back and teach others that you can have a very basic life with some dignity and a little class to go with it.
Brazils future problem is going to be the strong commercial alliances it is forming with the Middle East. They are making very shortsighted moves. It is like somehow they imagine they are going to be immune to the war on terror. Or are completely cluess to the developments post 9-11.
You should buy you a "piece of a house" in coastal Bahia and resell it to an Arab. smilies/wink.gif And I am very serious. You won't be doing anything different than the "movers and shakers" there. smilies/cheesy.gif smilies/cheesy.gif
Welcome back Augustus!
written by dnbaiacu, September 19, 2008
Augustus… ist zurück/ est retourné / retornou / is back


Does this mean you went to "Zurich" , my favorite city in Europe? smilies/smiley.gif

I don't know how well I survived "IKE",, seeing as though I am STILL in San Antonio due to the lack of electricity at home in Houston. I am on a forced vacation. So that means no Brazil next month. Only the end of the year smilies/angry.gif smilies/angry.gif smilies/sad.gif
Love what's happening to the dollar/real lately smilies/smiley.gif But I wonder how long this will last. And if the change has reached the local banks and the streets. There is a delay between whatever street Bovespa is on and Main Street.(is it Avenida Paulista? I will have to google it) I need to take advantage of possibly the dollars last rally.
You were missed. smilies/smiley.gif Although you didn't miss much on this thread towards the end. Anytime Obama is a topic , things always seem to digress to race mudslinging fight.
This is a week for Ch.c. So keep your eyes open smilies/smiley.gif smilies/smiley.gif
Cheers!
Dnb
written by Augustus, September 19, 2008
I'm very glad that you managed to survive that horrible ordeal, but I'm exceedingly distressed by the poor inhabitants of Galveston (is that the correct spelling?).

No, I did not go to Zurich - LOL. I was being silly and entered "I'm back" in the four languages I know...
The portion: "Augustus ist zurück" simply means in German - "Augustus has returned" smilies/cheesy.gif

Are you really going to Brazil? Do you actually speak Portuguese (enough to get by)? Interestingly, since I saw the TAM entry in Brazzil.MAGG, I decided to go to Rio in 2009 (I'm so glad there will be - again - non-stop flights.

I'm glad to see that you became rather close to Siemprejulia... I'm afraid she misunderstood one of my early entries and no longer speak to me smilies/sad.gif

Hopefully you will show up in the next thread - which appears to have some new discussions - yet, I have seen no additional entry since last night...
- http://www.brazzil.com./articl...might.html
Siemprejulia
written by Augustus, September 19, 2008
You are a very smart lady!
I fully agree with your assessment regarding Brazil's shortsighted approach toward Islamic countries... Most Brazilians do not appear to understand the issue and presume that Islam is simply opposed to the USA, whereas in fact, it is opposed to the entire Western World, which naturally includes Brazil! In fact, considering the "permissive" nature of Brazilian society (regarding their casual approach to sex, alcohol and scantly clad women) the Islamic countries are bound condemn and even attack Brazilian culture more so than the other (wealthier) Western countries... As an example, in case you are curious, log on to BBC Brasil (and access the interactive section – presuming you read Portuguese) - there is an entry about Osama Bin Ladin open for comments (which, unlike this blog, are published only after a censor approves the contents). The bottom line: most entries I read accuse the USA, applaud Arab anti-Americanism, question the nature of 9/11 – some even imply that it was a CIA conspiracy, and others doubt even that Osama exists!!! I was flabbergasted by the extreme shortsightedness, ignorance, and naïveté...
If Brazil welcomes great numbers of Muslims into its territory, they have no idea what are the likely outcome/impact a few years later…

Are you really moving to Brazil? You are a brave lady!
Where are you planning to live (Salvador?)


Cheers
...
written by dnbaiacu, September 19, 2008
Eu acho que posso falar portuguese bem. Siempre estou em contato com famlia ali. Na verdade acho que o portuguese e' mais expresiva. E prefiero falar no idioma quando posivel.
Embora tenho muito aprender eu sei o suficiente para transmitir meus pensementos com claridade as pessoas que tem a paciencia me escutar.
As letras de "Galveston" que voce escreveu eram corretas.
A linea "Continental" tambem vai ofrecer um voo direto a Rio de Janeiro. Voce dever ser feliz saber. Essa parada (escala) em Sao Paulo e' chato mesmo.
Pretendo voltar a Brasil e morrar ai permanente com tempo. Tenho uma casa e um sitio. E estou desenvolvendo um negocio que envolve a pescaria. Estou querendo simplificar minha vida. Esta vida de "corre corre" aqui nos estados unidos nao e' mais pra mim. E agora , com tudo o que esta' acontecendo nao e' vale a pena.

Sim, "Siemprejulia" e' agradavel , compartilhamos algumas ideas em respeito de como a politica funciona. Um jogo da decepcao completo. Nao sei como as pessoas levam serio a bagunca que e'.
Ok , espero que vc entendeu tudo que escrevi sem ficar irritado demais com o errores. Eu sei como voce escreve perfectamente bem o ingles e tenho inveja e quero te imitar smilies/smiley.gif
A gente nos encontramos em um (num) outro "blog" ta' bom.
Como sempre foi bom ouvrir algo de voce.
Ate' o proximo
smilies/smiley.gif
Lol ...Augustus
written by dnbaiacu, September 19, 2008
Augustus I "think" you may my comments were "Siemprejulias"
The bottom line: most entries I read accuse the USA, applaud Arab anti-Americanism, question the nature of 9/11 – some even imply that it was a CIA conspiracy, and others doubt even that Osama exists!!! I was flabbergasted by the extreme shortsightedness, ignorance, and naïveté...
If Brazil welcomes great numbers of Muslims into its territory, they have no idea what are the likely outcome/impact a few years later…

Truth is Augustus not a few Americans think the very same thing with good evidence to support such theories.
It is evident you have much love for the U.S but don't give it any more credit than it deserves. No power comes innocently.
No plane hit the pentagon.. Do your research. And Osama bin Laden is real. He and Daddy Bush go way back. It is just we'd be fools to believe they don't know where he is. And finding and killing him would only give another reason to stop the "war on terrorism" an that is not the intent. Remember, there is no profit in peace. Although I do believe this war in fact does have some "cultural" intolerance to it on both sides and for valid reason.
If I am in fact mistaken about you confusing my comments with hers, please let me know where she commented on the subject.. I can't find it. And I am interested in what she has to say. smilies/smiley.gif
...
written by siemprejulia, September 20, 2008
The biggest terrorists are in the White House.
...
written by siemprejulia, September 20, 2008
It was Dnbaiacu's comentario, not mine. But a very interesting one!
Dnb
written by Augustus, September 20, 2008

Firstly, considering you were not born and raised in Brazil, your Portuguese is not bad... Naturally there are mistakes, some Spanish words, a couple of unclear passages, BUT your text was totally understandable, and I am certain that after spending a couple of months in Brazil (provided you keep on writing) your Portuguese will be perfect!!!! (I’m very proud of you!!!) You are a very smart, capable young man, and I'm convinced that you will have a bright future (despite your religious excesses - I just could not fail to comment on it) smilies/grin.gif smilies/wink.gif

Secondly, regarding your second entry (in English), I have indeed mixed up entries (sorry) your comment was addressed to Siemprejulia.
You know well that on that level (the threat of Islamic nations) we are on the same page! Yet, I'm not sure if you understood my criticism of the BBC Brazil bloggers (I had posted some of the views I read - I hope you did understand that they were not my views smilies/smiley.gif

When are you planning to move to Brazil?
Are you really serious?
Is everybody moving to Brazil
????!!! smilies/shocked.gif smilies/shocked.gif
"What Can I Say About Such Men": El Guapo.
written by Ric, September 20, 2008
Not much one can or should say to someone that thinks that a 757 did not hit the Pentagon. Or that the universe is only 10,000 (or less) years old.

Talking about it won´t help.

In defense of believers and researchers and the incredulous
written by dnbaiacu, September 20, 2008
Or that the universe is only 10,000 (or less) years old.

Everyone that believes in the Bible does not believe the above quote. In fact people that actually "study" the Bible don't believe that at all.
And most people also know that the more you research the events surrounding and involving 9-11 the more is discovered that there was CIA involvement. This is no real secret.
We will probably never know the true masterminds behind 9-11, but one thing is certain Euro-American involvement aided the occurence of the event.
Augustus.
written by dnbaiacu, September 20, 2008
I lived with family on my mom's side in Brazil for three years 2003-06. I came back when the dollar started to fall and to restucture "meus bems" with full intent on returning. I'm actually still here longer than I expected due to the dollars continuous fall. But it doesn't matter because the "idas e voltas" allow for me to distruibute coveted electronic goods to family and friends. And I have to get my mindset back on the brazilian wavelength which as you know is different from the States. Not better or worse in my opinion. Just different. This time I will return with the endeavor not lose myself while re-adjusting again to the culture on a full-time basis. I intend to float back and forth until I can't afford to do it anymore. Which will come soon enough.
I "divested" here and "invested" there. So yeah, I am really serious. What do I have to lose? Especially if the U.S , Ch.c's words is the next "re-emerging" economy. It has been time to think globally. I can't get out of here soon enough. smilies/smiley.gif If I am destined to continue to chase inflation, I might as well be in a more relaxed enviroment with cleaner air doing it. When I am in Brazil no one knows I am not from there unless I talk. And even then sometimes they think I am a full blooded Brazilian that just spent most of his life in the states. So it is cool for me. With the internet I will intellectually survive. And I want to help some of my people. So it's going to be good.
Dnb
written by Augustus, September 20, 2008
Which part of Brazil is your “target” place of residence?
I seem to recall your family has property (in an island? In Northeastern Brazil?)
Interestingly Siemprejulia appears to have similar plans...

After so many MANY years in the United States, I do not believe it to be possible to re-adjust to the Brazilian “mindset”; yet, a few years ago I had contemplated such possibility when I retire, but when I recalled the enormous bureaucracy which is inevitable in any aspect of Brazilian life, I got discouraged. I was particularly concerned with the fact that I am deemed “desaparecido” by certain governmental agencies (e.g. CPF); in addition I suppose it might appear strange to return after so many years. Finally, the last “straw” against any possible plan for my return simply ended the entire debate, namely the selection of site of residence, for the only places I could realistically choose (Rio & Sao Paulo) are nowadays so dangerous that I just gave up my plans… Yet, reading your plans for a simpler life in the “motherland” renders me nostalgic and envious of your courage!

I sincerely wish you the best possible luck with your plans!
CPF
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 20, 2008
That is what you mean?

governmental agencies (e.g. CPF)

CPF = Communist Party for Foreigners

.
CPF
written by Ricardo C. Amaral, September 20, 2008
That is what you mean?

governmental agencies (e.g. CPF)

CPF = Communist Party for Foreigners

.
The Mark
written by Ric, September 20, 2008
Without which no one is supposed to be able to buy or sell. Almost forty years later they still do, with total impunity.

CPF, Cadastro de Pessoa Física, or Church Pension Fund.

CGC, Cadastro Nacional de Contribuinte, now CNPJ.

CFR, Council on Foreign Relations, before that it was Consolidated Freightliner Rebuilt (a reman Fageol).
...
written by João da Silva, September 21, 2008
The Mark


Thanks for the clarifications. smilies/cheesy.gif
imposto de renda
written by siemprejulia, September 24, 2008
I remember that no one paid taxes and there was no repercussion. My friends used to say it wasn't worth it - you pay and it dissapears. I thought they were exagerrating a little....until coming back home to the US. Now I see they were right. We pay so much in taxes here and get virtually no social services, no health care, etc.

I have no plans to live in Brazil again, but I miss the Brazil I knew terribly. I went back in 2003, after 2 years back in the US, and I felt like a foreigner. The roots culture I loved in Brazil was dissapearing (afro brazilian dance, orisha dance, samba reggae) and in its place were all things Amero/European: modern dance, hip hop, ballroom dance, gentrified world music. Well, I had great years in Brazil working in what I love to do, taking lots of dance classes, learning about healing and spirituality, traveling in Goias and the interior of Bahia, hiking and camping in extraordinary places, like O Vale do Capao and Alto Paraiso before it they became gentrified.

Brazil is the most spiritual place I have ever been.
For practitioners, it is a dream to work in: when people come to you they have faith, want to get better and will do what suggest. I didn't make much money, but the healing I experienced and got to witness was amazing.
...
written by .., September 25, 2008
I remember that no one paid taxes and there was no repercussion. My friends used to say it wasn't worth it - you pay and it dissapears.


Your Brasilian friends must be very rich and powerful to evade taxes and cheat the Leão. Unfortunately, the salaried middle class does not enjoy such privilege of not declaring the Tax returns, knowing well that the tax they pay indeed disappears. The poor people also pay several indirect taxes like IPI, ICMS, ISQN, etc; that disappear too.

I have no plans to live in Brazil again, but I miss the Brazil I knew terribly.


A good decision on your part. Can you imagine living here as a Gringa and evading taxes?
To ....
written by siemprejulia, October 03, 2008
Why don't you identify yourself? You certainly identified me, but I prefer to be called "foreigner". FYI, almost all of my friends were lower class or lower middle class. Some worked 2 and 3 jobs, many had their own businesses. I had one wealthy friend who said she paid taxes and let God pay for whatever the outcome was.

Interesting that you thought this the only thing to comment on, and that you set yourself apart from the other readers here who know the meaning of courtesy.

You obviously do not.

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