One good thing about history, is that we can look back at it. And in looking back we can reflect, analyze and learn. Its distance from us, its safe proximity in memory and on the page, as opposed to our immediate moment, affords us a calmer head and a more objective eye; a group discussion, even, amongst experts. Who cannot spot the warning signs now? It is so obvious. Why were we taken by surprise? In looking back at historically catastrophic events, or the inverse, that of successful endeavors, we must stop and take time to stay turned around, view that particular and significant spot on the historical axis for a long…