America near the breaking point - divided as never before in modern history. The political right abandoned independence and respect for traditional conservative values. The political left drifted away from realistic aspirations and common sense. Extremism and deep division ensue. History has shown that when politicians pledge blind allegiance to an authoritarian leader, the results range from very bad to disastrous. History is being repeated, this time in the U.S.A.The nation at a crossroads: How did we get here, and where are we going? The answers have critical implications for the future of America and, in many ways, for the world.