2008 Distinguished Speakers Lectures Series
Lifelong Learning Institute, Edison College, Punta Gorda, FL

MEXICO: The Blessing and the Curse of Oil Revenues
Discussed was the politics and US relations with the key oil producing state of Mexico. As the second largest supplier of oil to the United States after Canada, the lecture focused on our evolving relations with Mexico and the threat of discontent and growing populist tendencies in this our closet Latin American neighbor.

CANADA & THE UNITED STATES: Continental Partners
or Wary Neighbors
What is the relationship between Canada and the United States today? This lecture assumed the hypothesis was best illustrated by a metaphor. The relationship is like the example of the elephant sleeping with the mouse. The mouse must be very careful if, in its sleep, the elephant rolls over. Common historical antecedents were used, starting as colonies of European powers and ending with President Bush’s foreign policy.

VENEZUELA: Is Chavez a Threat or a Promise?
This lecture focused the discussion of Venezuela on Chavez’ populist policies. How is oil wealth being used to enhance relations with other Latin American nations and in encouraging the development of “Bolivarian” movement independent of the United States?