America's Hope: Why Every Other Civilization Has Failed and What You Can Do to Save This One

by Douglas E. Brinley

See current events in a different light! Several civilizations have lived on the American continent over the centuries, and each of them has been destroyed or decimated. Do we know – really know – what led to their destruction? And does a similar fate await us? Douglas E. Brinley has carefully studied the Book of Mormon, the teachings of modern prophets, and recent traumatic world events to outline what happened to the previous inhabitants of America. He describes ten stages of decline that each of the previous societies passed through prior to their destruction, comparing our current conditions to theirs. Providing insights that offer hope and opportunity in a time of upheaval, this book offers counsel on what we must do to avoid the fate that befell former civilizations.

256 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2005

Reviews

[Debi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the way this book breaks down the prior three inhabitants upon the American continents: the Antideluvians, Jaredites and Nephites and the failings that lead to their distruction. I was always struggling to understand how secret combinations were able to gain control of them. Then, after reading several other books on the secret organizations that are to be found in our country, and throughout the world, I can see how the current events in America are leading us in that same direction. I pray that righteous decisions by God fearing people will enable us to prevent the same things from happening again.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book compares our modern American civilization with every occupant of this nation throughout history. It gave me some very good insights and I will use it as a reference book for church talks, lessons, etc., so I'm glad I bought it. However, it did seem a bit repetitive to me (granted that might be because the cycle of civilizations on this continent has been repetitive). Anyway, it was a worthwhile read but I would check it out from the library first to see if it is something you would like to own.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author uses the Book of Mormon, teachings of modern day prophets, and world events to describe what happened to past inhabitants of America and compares our current circumstances to theirs.

It was an interesting book to read during the financial crisis, California's Proposition 8, and the elections. If you are only going to read one chapter, read the last one. The author quotes modern day prophets and their messages are basically that the Church will not fail and therefore the country will not either.

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very appropriate book for the current condition of our country. The author examines the Book of Mormon and identifies ten stages of decline every failing civilization has went through before being destroyed. He then identifies the declining condition of the U.S. which scared me to death. He concludes with his testimony that we will have nothing to fear in the last days because our Heavenly Father will protect us if we work to bring good to those around us.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

I purchased this book because of a fascination with history and wanting to know more about specific civilizations. Instead, I encountered a detailed study of ancient American civilizations in contrast to current events. This is an excellent study for all members of modern society, who should be alert to negative trends.

[Janna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it. It was sound information, but I felt like the author told me the same thing over and over and over again with just a few variations on the theme. It felt like a really great essay that was rewritten about 5 times.

[Mililani]

Currently reading this book. I took a class from Douglas Brinley. I wanted to see what he has to say.