Oh, ok.

I didn't know the USA was 400 years old.

For some reason I thought it was older. :o
Compare that with Singapore. We're a stripling, modern Singapore at 188 i.e. colonial rule. And the Republic of Singapore itself? Since 1965. A toddling infant at 42!

But here's something interesting that turned up whilst I surfed to confirm my dates :

This website contains the on-line versions of books previously published in hard copy by the Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress under the Country Studies/Area Handbook Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Army.

Because the original intent of the Series' sponsor was to focus primarily on lesser known areas of the world or regions in which U.S. forces might be deployed, the series is not all-inclusive. At present, 102 countries and regions are covered.

Notable omissions include Canada, France, the United Kingdom, and other Western nations, as well as a number of African nations. The date of information for each country appears on the title page of each country and at the end of each section of text.

The Country Studies Series presents a description and analysis of the historical setting and the social, economic, political, and national security systems and institutions of countries throughout the world and examines the interrelationships of those systems and the ways they are shaped by cultural factors.

The books represent the analysis of the authors and should not be construed as an expression of an official United States Government position, policy, or decision. The authors have sought to adhere to accepted standards of scholarly objectivity. Corrections, additions, and suggestions for changes from readers will be welcomed for use in future hard copy editions.

Why am I not surprised? Oh, I'm sure most countries will have the equivalent, but it was interesting to skim the article on Singapore. Be seen through another country's eyes.


I think I'll have a good, thorough read when I get back home today....