700. "The Colder War, How the Global Energy Trade Slipped from America's Grasp" by Marin Katusa.

I briefly highlighted this book in entry #696 to rebuke  Green-Only activists in Colorado. The book is an excellent read detailing the history of fossil fuels and the politics and plans of different countries. Although Mr. Katusa stresses Putin's orchestration of the world's energy resources, I do believe the world countries have been finding their own way more than being led by Putin. Yes, Putin seems to be taking advantage everywhere he can to better his hand. Yet, his reach is still short of America's when you consider geographic, populated area managed now. I look at Putin's moves more of like the Europeans move to create the EU and a single currency. However, unlike the EU, he has the backing of natural resources, both located in Russia and agreements with many other countries. Will this management guarantee him success via his CES  (essentially a group of countries working together economically that he formed) is questionable. Weaker countries, as in the EU, would like to think the stronger countries will bend over backwards for them, like Greece. But, how long will that last? Taking on the task of a single currency, the Euro, has been found to be a very stressful and straining challenge. Unlike America with its States already manageable and the current global strength of the Dollar and Petrodollar (de facto trade of raw resources in Dollars), Russia still has a long hill to climb, If she were the only country climbing it, she would continue to make great progress, as noted in the book. However, other countries, specifically China, are also reaching out with the Yuan wherever possible -- the same tactics as Putin.

The scary theme of the book where America's Petrodollar and strong Dollar are threatened, or as Mr. Kitusa implies, on the brink of collapse is supported by scores of history and facts. I can't say he is totally correct and that he completely convinced me, but he does ring a compelling warning alarm to our Government who to-date have still not shared a comprehensive long-term Energy plan that this book explains.

It is definitely a SCARY book! His final conclusion is really what America can do to avoid the crisis he builds. I won't reveal those here, but must say they do agree with I had previously thought necessary. It is definitely time for our government to WAKE UP!

Read this to learn all about Energy history, development, use, and political power.