The Byzantine Empire’s long run — 1,100 years — may seem remote from the 21st century, but a reading of its history offers at least three timeless lessons.

In January of this year, the number of manufacturing jobs increased by 50,000. Yet this vibrant sector is being held back—and not by imports.

Hanoi

Reflecting its buzzing energy, Vietnam is eager to play a larger role in Asia. Given the challenges it faces, America would welcome another willing partner in an increasingly tense region. But the gap between Washington and Hanoi remains large, and unless both sides take the courtship...

Many Americans resent banks' roles in the financial crisis and in home foreclosures, and are angered at huge salaries paid by firms that received taxpayer money. These feelings are understandable, but not the entire picture.

Fulminating about America in decline is fashionable today across the political spectrum. Whatever the reason for the commentators' grandiose predictions of decline, they are describing what can and should be understood simply as a unique civilization's momentary indigestion.

Though news from Japan is slowly fading from the headlines, the woes of the world's third-largest economy are going to continue for years. The cumulative effect of all these problems is likely to drag down national confidence in the coming months.

A dynamic market for corporate control is a key driver of economic growth.

Our plan addresses the long-term fiscal imbalance while promoting limited government and economic growth. The plan fundamentally reforms the tax code while aggressively cutting federal spending to hold down the debt.