There are riots in the streets all over the world (real, literal, riots – with blood and death and carnage). There are various forms of unrest in cities and towns across the globe. There are massive financial recessions. There are entire countries going bankrupt. There are historic cultures being torn down. There are threats against numerous entities – from all sides of the spectrum. There are regimes placing undue authority on the backs of their citizens, and there are citizens expressing contempt for those who claim to govern them. There are extremists and pacifists. There are idealists and realists.
…It really doesn’t make a difference where you live, or what “side” you are on, or if you are active in the plethora of ongoing exploits or not, the reality of the big picture is the same:
Civil unrest is not only plausible, but highly likely.
Whether it is ultimately triggered by economic instability, political strains, terrorist activity, or even a major national disaster, civil unrest (mobocracy) could break out at any time – and at any place. It is truly strange how difficult it is for so many of us to fathom or comprehend how something that has been common throughout history (and is even happening today around the world), could reasonably happen to us – here – in our lifetime.
Yet even for those who may recognize this reality, most are often heard to say something like, “Well, if society ever really did break down in America, we will be protected and provided for by the authorities”. …Hmmmm. Really? Show me the proof – and the history to back it up…
We saw – first hand – what happened during the natural disaster of Hurricane Katrina. Even though it was an “isolated” incident, with an entire nation of unaffected, capable individuals and recourse’s surrounding them, relief was slow to come. Panic ensued. Crime rates skyrocketed. Medical situations became dire. Aid was ill coordinated and distributed. Public facilities were dangerous and inadequate. Police and National Guard units began confiscated private citizens’ only means of protecting themselves against thugs, gangs, and criminals that suddenly seemed to be crawling out of every basement and back room. Valuables and supplies exposed to looters and other corrupt officials. And instead of taking responsibility, most authorities pointed fingers and hid in corners.
Yep. It was definitely the picture of competence and capability; one that should bring peace to every American’s heart in trusting that “the man” will be there when it really matters.
And, again, this was simply one isolated incident. What if it were a crisis that suddenly involved the entire nation?
The reality of the situation is that if civil unrest suddenly ensues, you and I (and our families and neighbors) are on our own. Even if our governing bodies and authorities attempt to help us, most experts believe (from looking at how things have been conducted and handled in the past), that this assistance will be extremely limited at best, and lead to even greater problems at worst (such as the declaring of martial law – which if you do not know is basically the governments ultimate suspension of ordinary law, allowing them to do whatever to whomever, whenever).
There is a surprisingly thin line that holds up the veil between order and disorder just before giving way to more social collapse. Just go look at any historical account of the way civil conflict has spiraled out of control. Small events gather momentum (which are seen everywhere today) and seemingly instantly gain momentum and explode. In hindsight, many of the signs in these situations seem to have been obvious. But in reality, as these events were unfolding, those who were soon to be in the middle of the crises were taken by surprise and caught unprepared.
Yet there are also stories of the wise few who were ready, and had the fortune of survival.
Envision a time when everyone is out of basic utilities and provisions. Availability and access to ordinary items we take for granted (such as gas and groceries) are no longer there. Angry mobs become frustrated and violent. Lawless and unscrupulous individuals seek to take advantage of the situation. People are hungry, and starting to do whatever they can – or have to do – in order to feed themselves and their children. …What would you do? Whatever is it, it is hoped that you would be one in the position to help others, and not simply a liability like the masses.
Don’t be ignorant. There is a real possibility of social collapse. And being prepared for it is an important part of emergency preparedness. When the situation overwhelms the public services you will be on your own (or, if you’re lucky, with like-minded friends) to protect you, your family, and your property.
