country that marched inevitably toward the Civil War.

But if that compromise hadn't been struck, would we be posting about politics in the United States?

Compromise is the nature of the beast.

I surely don't like what is happening in Congress right now but I know enough of politics to say it's better to take what you can get when you can get it. If nothing happens this time as far as health care is concerned, don't expect any action for a very long time.

You have to remember that a major reason we are facing such a battle over Health Care reform now is because of the bank collapse leading up to the general election. You can never anticipate events and very often have to deal with issues that suddenly arise that are beyond the control of those dealing with legislation.