Land of ice and fire

Iceland is a well known country despite the fact that it has a small population and is remotely placed. Many famous artists, notably Björk, hail from the island. Iceland has recently been in the news following the collapse of its international banking system in early October 2008 and a volcanic eruption in mid April 2010 which closed down air travel in Europe.

Facts
Iceland is an island, with a total area of 104,000 km2 (or 40.000 sq mi), in the North Atlantic Ocean. Its size is equivalent to that of the US states of New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Delaware and Maryland combined. Located on top of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, the island is geologically active, with frequent earthquakes and eruptions. At the same time, the population (about 320,000 in 2009) enjoys the advantage of renewable geothermal energy. The island has abundant fresh water, clean air and open spaces. The population mostly lives along the coast of the island. The capital and largest city is Reykjavík, with the surrounding area being home to some two-thirds of the national population. The interior mainly consists of a plateau characterised by sand fields, mountains and glaciers, while many glacial rivers flow to the sea through the lowlands. Iceland is warmed by the Gulf Stream and has a temperate climate despite its high latitude just below the Arctic Circle. The ocean shelf has abundant fishing and likely mineral resources, including oil.

History
The history of Iceland includes several periods. The first period is the age of settlement (874-930 A.D), which includes the discovery of the island by Viking seafarers, the arrival of the first permanent settler and the general settlement of the country. The second period is the Commonwealth (930-1262 A.D.), during which time the Althing, a parliament of free men, was established. It is the oldest surviving parliamentary body in the world. In the year 1000, the Althing agreed to replace Nordic paganism with Christianity. The Commonwealth ended in a civil war and a “little ice age,” which made Icelanders dependent on outside supplies. The third period is Iceland under Norwegian and Danish kings (1262-1944). During Danish rule (1662-1944) the Protestant reformation came to Iceland. In the 19th century an independence movement emerged, leading to home rule and sovereignty in the early 20th century. During World War II, Iceland became independent from Denmark, marking the fourth period of the Republic of Iceland (1944-). During this period Iceland became a member of NATO and other international bodies. The Cod Wars (1951-1976) broke out. Iceland’s integration into formal European cooperation began with membership in EFTA in 1970 and the EEA in 1994. The opening up of the economy resulted in considerable economic reform and expansion. In 2008 a financial crisis wrecked havoc with the economy, with Iceland applying for membership in the EU in July 2009.

Economy
Iceland developed an advanced fishing industry in the 20th century. The economy is based on free markets but also a Nordic welfare system, which includes universal health care and tertiary education for its citizens. In recent years, Iceland has been one of the wealthiest and most developed nations in the world. In 2007, it was ranked as the most developed country in the world by the United Nations' Human Development Index, and the fourth most productive country per capita. In 2008, the nation's banking system systematically failed, causing significant economic contraction and political unrest that led to early parliamentary elections. A new left of centre government has dramatically raised taxes to balance the budget while boosting the welfare state.

Birth of a Republic
Many consider the Republic of Iceland to have been born at 14.00 on June 17, 1944, when the new nation celebrated the founding of a new Republic. This event obtains a chart with 10° Virgo rising and one that does not explain well all of the events in the history. Prior to this, a national referendum had been held on two issues, whether to cut the legal tie with the Danish Crown and whether to form a Republic in Iceland. The referendum took place over four days, May 20-23, 1944. The turnout amounted to 98.6 per cent of the voting age population, with 99.5 per cent of those voting approving to sever the ties and almost as many favouring the creation of a Republic. The referendum is described thus:

"The referendum began around the whole country on Saturday 20. May at 12.00 noon and lasted until Tuesday evening. The weather was fair during the referendum. In most places the turnout was good on the first day, in some places entertainment and merriment. An emphasis was placed on getting as much of the voting done on the first day to have ample room for voting on the remaining days. In many places (communities) the referendum was finished with a 100% turnout already on the first day."[1]

In other words, the population made a formal decision to sever the ties with Denmark and create a republic. This event may be considered the true birth of the modern Icelandic nation. Importantly, the horoscope that obtains explains many of the events in the history. The referendum ended at midnight on the evening of Tuesday, 23 May, as is made clear in the front page story in Morgunbladid (literally: the morning paper), the main newspaper in Iceland, on May 25, 1944:

"When the casting of ballots was finished in Reykjavik at midnight yesterday, a total of 25,277 votes had been cast out of about 26,300 registered to vote. That is just over 96 per cent." [2]

In this regard, it should be noted that, as is the case for a morning paper, the article was written during the preceding day, or on May 24. The reference is thus to midnight of 23 May. Finally, the horoscope is set for Reykjavik, the capital of the new country.

Astrology of the Referendum horoscope
Scorpio is the rising sign of the horoscope, with 19° 52’ as the rising degree and the most effective point of each house.

According to astrologer & Author V.K. Choudhry,

“Scorpio is a watery sign ruled by Mars, the significator of energy, and it is weak. Ketu, the planet of secrecy and intuition, is exalted in this sign and the Moon, the significator of change and tenderness, is debilitated. These factors render the Scorpios intuitive and rigid...Scorpio is a fixed, negative, rajasic, kapha, female, mute, violent, fruitful and multiped sign and signifies severe sentiments. Depending on the influences on the ascendant, the sign Scorpio usually renders their natives determined, disciplined, self-restrained, fearless, persevering, energetic, intense, dynamic, decisive, self-centered, straightforward and tough or very sensitive, introverted, secretive, stubborn and ready to defend themselves.”

Mars as 6th lord is debilitated at 7° 43’ Cancer but well placed in the 9th house. However, it suffers on two accounts. It’s dispositor, 9th lord Moon, is weak in infancy and badly placed in the 8th house of obstacles and endings. It helps slightly that the Moon is conjunct Saturn as 4th lord of fixed assets, natural resources and communal harmony, bringing some luck to those indications even if they tend to involved in obstacles. More importantly, Mars is conjunct the Moon’s north node, the functional malefic Rahu, which indicates that the nation is destined to experience crises of conflict and financial stability which involve manipulations, as well as enduring a harsh nature, such as through volcanic eruptions and natural disasters. The Moon’s south node, the functional malefic Ketu, in addition to aspecting Mars, also aspects the 10th lord Sun, well placed and strong in the 7th house of foreign policy. This suggests seperative influences on the Sun. However, this aspect is not so harmful given the strength of the Sun in the sign of Taurus and 7th house of foreign policy. Jupiter as 2nd lord is exalted and well placed in Cancer and the 9th house - a sun-like house. Along with the strong Sun, this placement assures the country a good status in the world. As Jupiter is in old age and its dispositor is weak, the strength of its indications is reduced somewhat and thus more vulnerable to setback when the planet is transit afflicted. Mercury as 11th lord is placed in the 6th house of conflict, which suggests income and ideals and friendships are sometimes caught up in adversity, conflict or instability. Venus as 12th lord of foreign matters, is in infancy and thus weak, but well placed in the 7th house. This placement suggests either losses linked to selfish actions in foreign policy or seperation in foreign cooperation. Overall, the chart indicates a few weaknesses and difficulties in the national life, but the strength of the state, and luck with status and wealth offer counterweight.

MARS major period
Modern Iceland came into being in the Mars main period and Mercury sub-period, which began on August 25, 1943. As Mercury, 11th lord of income, is placed in the 6th house of conflict, the economic conditions were improving but not problem free.

RAHU major period
Things got quite interesting in the 18 year Rahu major period from February 24, 1947, as would be expected due to its natal configuration, with Rahu mutually afflicting Mars as 6th lord of conflict and financial stability.
-Natural disasters
Rahu also rules smoke and the first notable event was one of the largest eruptions in mount Hekla on March 29, 1947. On October 16, 1961, a volcanic eruption in Askja began at noon, lasting until 7 December 1961. As the Rahu period came to a close, on Nov 14, 1963, Iceland got a new island, Surtsey, when a volcano pushed its way up out of the sea five miles off the southern coast. The eruption lasted, with diminishing force, until June 1967. These events attracted international attention.
- Foreign policy conflict
As Rahu is placed in the 9th house, which has to do with foreign matters, Iceland was a founding member in international organisations like the UN, IMF and World Bank. In 1949, Iceland received the Marshall aid. On March 30, 1949, it was the decision by the parliament to become a member of NATO that resulted in a major riot in the town square, which police had to break up with force. On May 7, 1951, the American army returned to Iceland following Defence agreement during Korean War. A week later, on May 15, 1951, Iceland began to protect its fishing grounds from foreign exploitation, which led to the outbreak of the Cod Wars with Great Britain, by expanding its economic zone from 3 to 4 nautical miles. This effort resulted in a series of foreign policy disputes and direct confrontations with primarily Great Britain. The economic zone around Iceland was expanded in stages. The next extension took place in 1961, when the economic zone was pushed out to 12 miles, to 50 miles in 1973 and, finally, to 200 miles in 1976. The British government and Navy and the fishing fleet did their best to defeat the efforts of the Icelanders, a nation only a fraction of the size of Britain. In the end, however, David beat Goliath. The victory came in the Jupiter major period, and in the sub-period of the strong and powerfully placed Sun in the 7th house of foreign policy. Interestingly, the description of Scorpio is not inconsistent with the ironic comment by chief UK Cod War negotiator, Lord Hattersley, that Icelanders were “bloody minded” when it came to negotiating .[3]
- Accidents
There were many accidents and disasters during the Rahu period. On 31 January 1951, Glitfaxi airplane crashed during the afternoon, killing 20 persons. Six young sailors perished in a storm on January 6, 1952. On April 2, 1953, 2 perished in a snow avalanche. A boat sank on November 17, 1953, with 9 dying. On January 26, 1954, a trawler, Eric the Red, perished in a storm at sea, with 5 dying. On June 7, 1954, 3 young sisters perished in a house fire. On 5 January 1959, a small airplane crashed, killing 4. Sometime during February 9 and 10, 1959, the trawler Juli perished, with 30 drowning. On February 18, 1959, gale force wind caused destruction in the North and the lighthouse ship Hermodur perished, with 12 drowning. On May 24, 1959, a small plane transporting patients crashed into a mountain, with 3 being killed. On October 11, 1959, 2 children perished in a fire. On January 4, 1960, Motorboat Rafnkell perished, with 6 dying. On September 15, 1961, Motorboat Helgi perished at sea, with 7 dying. On February 10, 1962, the trawler Jupiter saved 26 men from the sinking trawler Ellidi. On January 18, 1963, an accidental gas poisoning of crew of Trawler Rodull results in 1 dying and 12 being seriously injured. On April 4, 1963, a storm with frost hit the country, resulting in 16 sailors dying.
- Labour conflict
Not surprisingly, there were many episodes of labour conflict during this period, given the conjunction of 6th lord Mars and Rahu. A tense labour strike for six weeks took placed from March 18 to April 29, 1954. In early January 1961, sailors around the country went on strike until March 25. Women labourers went on strike March 27, 1961, until a law concerning equality in wages for men and women was approved on May 29, 1961. A general strike of labourers began on July 18, 1961, a strike of road construction workers took place. On July 24, 1961, there was a strike of engineers, which lasted for 16 weeks. On June 4, 1963, a strike of pilots began. On June 27, 1963, a strike of engineers began; ending with a judgement on October 28. On January 1, 1965, musicians went on strike along with motorboat sailors, lasting until February 3. On January 9, 1965, waiters also went on strike, in sympathy with muscians, ending on January 13.
-Criminal case
On November 19, 1974, a famous criminal case began with the disappearance of Geirfinnur. It was tied with the disappearance of another man. After the case went cold in 1975, it erupted in January 1976 with accusations of leading politicians of a cover up. Even though the case led to some convictions, it was never considered solved.
- Achievement
There were a few events boosting the national pride. One took place on October 27, 1955, when Halldor Laxness received the Noble prize for literature. A year later, on November 27, 1956, Vilhjalmur Einarsson won the Silver medal at the Olympic Games in Sidney. On August 16, 1963, an Icelandic woman, Gudrun Bjarnadottir, was chosen Miss World.

JUPITER major period
The status of the country got a boost during the 16 year Jupiter period from February 23, 1965. Iceland won the Cod War in 1976.
- International relations
On March 28, 1966, an agreement was signed for Swiss Aluminium to build aluminium smelter plant at Straumsvik. This was a major event for the diversification of the economy, using the abundant hydro energy in the country. On March 1, 1970, Iceland's membership of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) took effect, opening the country up to free trade in industrial goods. On June 22, 1970, the world famous band, Led Zeppelin, held a concert in Iceland. While there the band wrote a new song about the country, the Immigrant Song. The World Chess Championship between American Robert Fischer and Soviet Boris Spassky was held in Reykjavik in the summer of 1972, with Fischer crowned world champion on September 1, 1972. A meeting of US President Nixon and French President Pompidou took place in Iceland on May 31, 1973.
- Domestic advances
On May 4, 1966, the parliament passed a law to allow the building of Silica production plant at Myvatn lake. On May 13, 1966, the Icelandic stated bought Skaftafell and made it into a state park. On September 30, 1966, the Icelandic TV Broadcasting Service began operation. On June 24, 1967, a new jet Gullfaxi arrived in Iceland, shortening travel distances to neighbouring countries by almost half. On November 24, 1967, the Icelandic krona was devalued by 25% in the wake of the depreciation of the British Pound Sterling. On May 26, 1968, right side traffic rules were adopted in Iceland, aligning with the practice of most other countries. On June 1, 1967, an olympic size swimming pool was opened at Laugardalur. on November 11, 1968, the Icelandic krona was devalued by 35,2%. On September 11, 1970, Audur Auduns became the first woman to become a Cabinet minister. At 09:00 pm on June 29, 1980, the world's first female President was elected.
- Natural disasters
Mt Hekla erupted on May 5, 1970, lasting until July 5, 1970. The Vestman islands eruption began on Jan. 23, 1973 and ended on July 3, 1973. The population of 5,000 was evacuated on the first night. Lava flows laid to waste a substantial part of the town. The long standing Krafla eruption began on Dec. 20, 1975 and ended on Sept. 18, 1984. Mt Hekla eurpted on Aug. 17, 1980, but it only lasted for three days.
- Tragedy
On July 10, 1970, the Prime Minister, Bjarni Benediktsson, died in a fire with his wife and grandson.

SATURN major period
The 19 year Saturn major period began on February 23, 1981. This period would be expected to accompany obstacles for fixed assets, but also some good fortune, as Saturn is conjunct the lord of luck, Moon, in the chart. Indeed, inflation in the month of April, 1981, exceeded 100%, affecting investment patterns and undermining the stability in the economy. There were some notable international events, with the historic summit on arms reduction held on Oct 11, 1986 between US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. On November 14, 1985, an Icelandic woman, Holmfridur Karlsdottir, was selected Miss World. In 1988, another Icelandic woman received the title, Linda Petursdottir. On Jun 27, 1996, gay marriages were legalized in Iceland.
- Tragedies
At 04:00 pm, on January 22, 1983, 4 persons were killed in snow avalanche in Patreksfjordur. At 07:50 pm, on November 22, 1991, five drowned on boat. At 06:25 am, on January 16, 1995, a snow avalanche killed 14 in the town of Sudavik. At 04:05 am, October 24, 1995, a snow avalanche killed 19 in the town of Flateyri. At 01:00 pm, on April 5, 1986, 5 were killed in small plane accident.
- Economy
On February 2, 1990, a national agreement on wage and price stability was reached. On February 12, 1993, the parliament approved a law for Iceland to join the European Economic Area agreement, a milestone in the integration of the domestic economy in European economy. A major foreign direct investment in power intensive industry took place in 1996-1997, resulting in a manageable boom in the economy.
- Natural disasters
Mt Hekla erupted on Jan. 17, 1991, lasting until Mar 11, 1991. An eruption in Vatnajokull on Sept. 30, 1996 resulted in a destructive flood. It ended two weeks later. Grimsvotn eruption took place on Dec. 28, 1998, lasting only one week. At 03:40 pm, on June 17, 2000, a 6.5 on the richter scale earthquake struck in the south of Iceland, causing considerable property damage.

MERCURY major period
The 17 year Mercury major period began on February 24, 2000. It began with a minor eruption of mount Hekla on Feb 27, 2000. As 11th lord Mercury is badly placed in the 6th house, this period would be expected to be associated with conflict concerning the aspirations and some issues of financial stability.
- Foreign direct investment boom
Following a minor recession in 2001-2002, major investment took place in power intensive industry during 2003-2007, which along with a boom in the banking sector and lending, caused an overheating of the economy, with rising inflation and large trade deficits.
- Banking collapse
The boom was followed by a dramatic collapse of the banking system on in early October 2008, during an international credit crunch. The dramatic decline in the value of the currency, increased debts of households and firms. At the same time, real incomes dropped significantly while unemployment soared.
- Political turmoil
Political turmoil followed, with riots breaking out. The riots peaked in late January 2009 with the government resigning and a new left of centre government taking power. A parliamentary committee was established to identify wrong doing in the banking collapse. The findings were presented on April 12, 2010, singling leaders of the previous government and governmental bodies out for dereliction of their duties.
- International conflict
The year 2009, was also marked by conflict over the terms by which the Icelandic state would make good on deposits of foreigners in the branches of an Icelandic bank abroad, the so-called Icesave dispute. At the same time, an IMF stand-by-arrangement was held up by the delay in resolving the dispute.
- Natural disaster
A major eruption took place in Eyjafjallajokull glacier around midnight of April 14, 2010, which emitted ash into the atmosphere. This ash drifted over the UK and other countries, bringing air traffic to a halt.[4] The economic repercussions of the disruption in travel are considered greater than those associated with the terrorist attacks in the USA on September 11, 2001. The large eruption was preceded by an eruption at nearby Fimmvorduhals from Mar. 20, 2010 to Apr. 12, 2010. Earlier, Mt Hekla erupted on Feb. 26, 2000, lasting for less than two weeks. An eruption in Grimsvotn in Nov. 2004 lasted for one week.

Prediction update
On April 27, 2010, Astrologer & Author V K Choudhry made the following prediction based on the new horoscope for Iceland:

"Worsening of situation is seen on 4th and 5th May, 2010. There can be possibility of additional stress of volcanic erruption." [5]

On April 16, 2010, Cosmologer made the following prediction based on the chart.

"It is likely the natural event taking place will be felt [for some months] ... also as the transit nodes will become stationary in the MEPs of the houses they now occupy." [6]

Future periods
The KETU major period will begin on February 23, 2017. It is expected to be somewhat challenging, having to do with seperative or isolating influences. The VENUS period will begin on February 24, 2024, and it will have to do with foreign matters. An excellent SUN period will then begin on February 24, 2044. At this time, Iceland will enjoy a prominent place in the international community. This period will be followed by the period of the MOON, from February 24, 2050, which should be attended by good fortune but also obstacles.

References
[1] The Republic Celebration 1944 (in Icelandic), Leiftur H.F. publishers, Reykjavík, pg. 60.
[2] "Election turnout in Reykjavik (in Icelandic), Morgunbladid, May 25, 1944
http://timarit.is/view_page_init.jsp?pubId=58&lang=is
[3] Hattersley, Roy (2010). “May I introduce the bloody-minded Icelanders”, The Times, London, UK. January 8. http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article6979915.ece [4] Stranded in Britain
http://cosmologer.blogspot.com/2010/04/stranded-in-britain.html
[5] Message #18617 on SAMVA list at 4:24 am, April 27, 2010
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SAMVA/message/18617
[6] Message #18568 on SAMVA list at 12:44 am, April 16, 2010 (in attachment)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SAMVA/message/18568

Stranded in Britain

On April 15, 2010, all air traffic ground to a halt in the UK due to Volcanic ash carried by winds in the upper atmosphere from an eruption in Iceland . The disruption to air traffic lasted for over one week and hit the UK especially hard.[1] The economic impact of this event is now considered greater than the terrorist attacks in the USA on September 11, 2001.
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The astrology of this event is clearly seen in the Virgo rising chart for the United Kingdom. In fact, the transits at that time were indicative of problems especially for those individuals and countries with Virgo as a rising sign (sidereal zodiac). In recent months, predictions based on the Systems' Approach have warned of a difficult time for this ascending sign during the month of April.
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Astrology of the event
In general terms, all the functional benefic planets of Virgo as a rising sign were transitting in the sixth and eighth houses on April 15. Thereof, transit 1st lord Mercury and 2nd lord Venus in Aries and 8th house were under the close afflicting aspect of Rahu in Sagittarius and 4th house. Of several indications ruled by Rahu, one is smoke! Moreover, as Venus is a general indicator of air travel, this disruption was felt far and wide.[2]
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Astrology of the UK chart

In the 16° Virgo rising chart for the UK, the Mars-Mercury period is operating. Mars is the planet ruling obstacles and placed in its own 8th house. This placement suggests British people have a good ability to surmount the difficulty they may experience. The sub-period lord, Mercury, rules the 1st house of self in the chart. As it is natally placed in the 3rd house, indications like transportation and communication come to the fore in the national life. In addition to the above described factors, in the UK chart, Rahu was also closely afflicting the Sun as 12th lord of foreign places natally placed in the most effective point of the 4th house, suggesting this event tested the patience of the populace. Morevoer, Rahu also afflicted 8th lord Mars in the 8th house, increasing the problems. Finally, 6th lord Saturn, which rules break-downs, is transiting the 1st house of the chart, further accentuating the problems. These transit-to-natal afflictions, involving functional malefic planets, suggest that Great Britain would be likely to face quite signficant problems at this time for the general public, as well as the military and police and the leader of the country. In fact, in recent months Astrologer & Author V K Choudhry, in his weekly rising sign predictions, warned those with Virgo ascendants to prepare for difficulty during the month of April.

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The problem dies down

All airports in the UK remained closed until April 23.[3] The problems began to wind down around the 21st but the airports were not reopened until April 23. In this regard, we may note that Venus moved into the sign Taurus on April 21 and had gained good strength in transit by the 23rd.

References
[1] Volcanic ash spreads more travel misery across Europe, BBC, April 18, 2010

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8627720.stm

[2] Wikipedia: Air travel disruption after the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_travel_disruption_after_the_2010_Eyjafjallaj%C3%B6kull_eruption

[3] Europe's air traffic 'back to normal', 12:06 GMT, Friday, 23 April 2010 13:06 UK

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8639770.stm

Accurate predictions

The many accurate predictions made by Astrologer & Author V K Choudhry deserve attention. This article reviews his key predictions concerning the outlook for the US and global economy made from late 2008, when the uncertainty about the economic outlook was at an unprecedented level.

Importantly, the predictions were based on the
Systems' Approach, which he has distilled from ancient vedic astrology, and the authenic national horoscope for the USA, the SAMVA USA chart, which was discovered and developed by Cosmologer, with critical initial assistance from historical scholar, John T W B.

US economic growth
The graph below shows clearly that the economy began to stabilise and improve in the third quarter of 2009.[1]

After economic growth began to decline in the 3rd quarter of 2008, with accelerating speed through the 1st quarter of 2009, it turned positive in the 3rd quarter of 2009. The economy was thus growing again although output had dropped to a lower level than before the crisis. In the 4th quarter 2009 growth was greater still.

While things remain difficult in many respects, and the transits in the SAMVA USA chart in the summer of 2010 are tough, with unemployment at high levels and the financial industry still struggling, it is generally accepted that he outlook for the economy has improved from August 2009. In part this is related to advances in technology, with leading IT companies like Apple producing one advanced product after the other.

This is consistent with three predictions made from late 2008 by Astrologer & Author V K Choudhry concerning the outlook of the US and global economy.

1. Message #16203 on SAMVA list on October 30, 2008

„The continued impact of transit Jupiter on transit Saturn; persisting influence of transit Rahu/Ketu axis in SAMVA USA chart and then the transit influence of Rahu/Ketu on transit Jupiter shows continued financial difficulties/ setbacks for US upto the end of February, 2009...The outlook is not likely to improve significantly even with the change of the Government. The sub period of Saturn shows that recovery of the financial setback is likely to take a lot of time.“ [2]

2. Message #16490on SAMVA list on December 22, 2008

„ASTROLOGICAL PREDICTIONS FOR 2009 FOR THE WORLD IN GENERAL
The economies of the world are influenced by the major economies - USA, Europe, India, China and Japan. The general trigger is the US economy. In the first seven months the things remain challenging for the financial sectors of the world...Things start taking positive outlook from August, 2009, onwards...The employment opportunities are likely to rise in the computer and IT industry.“ [3]

3. Message #17685 on SAMVA list on September 21, 2009

„During the Saturn sub period things are likely to improve to a good extent once the persisting transit afflictions are over towards the end of the year. The sub period of Mercury will also prove to be helpful barring some transit influences. The economy will be on sound footing in long run with taking care of the extravaganza like aggressive / risky marketing and huge perks drawn by top bosses of the companies which was prevalent and contributed to the economic setbacks.“ [4]

Conclusion
In addition to the accuracy of the Systems' Approach, as demonstrated with the accurate predictions by V K Choudhry, it is of equal importance that the predictions for the US economy were made on the basis of an authentic mundane horoscope for the country, the SAMVA USA chart (Perpetual Union).

„The chart is based on the event when Maryland became the 13th and final state to approve the ratification of the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union at 5:00 PM on February 2, 1781 in Annapolis, Maryland. In doing so, the USA effectively came into being as a Perpetual Union.“ [5]

These ingredients are essential for accurate predictions: 1) a reliable method of horoscopic interpretation and prediction, 2) an authentic mundane horoscope and 3) the ability of the astrologer to accurately assess the transit and period influences in terms of the natal potential seen in the chart.

References
[1] US Bureau of Economic Analysis
http://www.bea.gov/briefrm/gdp.htm
[2] Message on SAMVA list on October 30, 2008
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SAMVA/message/16203
[3] Message on SAMVA list on December 22, 2008
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SAMVA/message/16490
[4] Message on SAMVA list on September 21, 2009
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SAMVA/message/17685
[5] Authentic chart for the USA: SAMVA (Perpetual Union)
http://cosmologer.blogspot.com/2007/12/samva-usa-chart.html

Rahu: greed and deception

The full extent of the manipulation perpetrated by American businessmen in the economic and financial bubble of recent years that has now burst is being revealed. The timing of behavior characterised as manipulative and deceptive being discovered has been predicted in US national life based on the SAMVA USA chart.
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The key feature in the chart to explain such behavior is the placement of Rahu, the Moon’s north node, in the most effective point of the 10th house of public life. From this placement, Rahu afflicts the 2nd house of wealth, the 4th house of communal harmony and real estate and the 6th house of debts. Venus as 4th lord is placed in the 6th house and thus its indications are directly affected by the deceptions.

Deception exposed
The New York Times reports on the latest piece of deception, which took place inside one the largest financial firms, Goldman Sachs[1]:

"Every time you pick up another rock along the winding path that led to the financial crisis, something else crawls out. Subprime mortgages were sold as a way to give low-income people a chance at homeownership and the American Dream. Instead, the mortgages turned out to be an excuse for predatory lending and fraud, enriching the lenders and Wall Street at the expense of subprime borrowers, many of whom ended up in foreclosure.” [2]

The deceptions were extended by willing accomplices, the rating agencies:

"The ratings agencies, which rated the complex investments that were built with subprime mortgages, turned out to be only too happy to have gained by firms that paid their fees — slapping AAA ratings on mortgage packages that were structured to fail.”[2]

A famous investment bank collapsed under the weight of its own manipulations:

“Lehman Brothers turned out to be disguising the full reality of its fatal balance sheet by playing accounting games.”[2]

The story goes on:

“All over Wall Street, firms pushed mortgage originators to churn out more loans that were doomed the moment they were made."[2]

Such deceptive behavior was motivated by greed. Ultimately, the desire for major gains led to deceptive behavior. This pattern of unethical or illegal behavior has been seen on Wall Street before, including in the boom of the 1920s. The main result of the crash, in addition to exposing the fleecing of ordinary investors in sophisticated scams involving the highest rungs of the corporate ladder, is to reduce trust in the financial markets as a means to grow ones savings. [3] Some commentators believe it will take generations to reestablish trust in Wall Street following the flagrant abuses.

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The summer of 2010
The Obama administration, with the support of the Democratic majority in Congress, has now announced it is going to enact laws to reform the financial system. It is likely this will be the scene of intense manipulation as transit Rahu will become stationary around 18° Sagittarius and the 6th house of conflict this summer, from where it is in mutual aspect with its natal placement at 18° Aries in the 10th house. Rahu also afflicts the most effective point of the 6th house, it thus aspects the 10th house of the public and administration, the 12th house of losses and foreign things and the 2nd house of wealth and status. These indications will thus feel the strain of this epic battle of the legislators trying to corral the wily businessmen, who tend to rule the roost in Washington.

References
[1] Janet Whitman (2010) "Goldman's fall." National Post, Saturday, April 17, 2010

http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=2917914

[2] Joe Nocera (2010). “A Wall Street Invention Let the Crisis Mutate.” New York Times, April 16.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/17/business/17nocera.html

[3] "Goldman charges puts Wall Street confidence on the line?"CNN, April 22, 2010.

http://business.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/22/goldman-charges-puts-wall-street-confidence-on-the-line/?hpt=C2

UK governing crisis ahead

The 16° Virgo rising chart for the United Kingdom suggests a governing crisis in coming months. This is interesting as parliamentary elections are scheduled to be held on May 6, 2010, which determine what party forms the next government.

Astrology of the chart
The Sun in any mundane chart rules the leader of a country. In the UK chart, the Sun, as 12th lord, is placed at 19° 06’ Sagittarius and thus in the most effective point of the 4th house. Saturn as 6th lord of opposition and enemity is placed in the 12th house. This combination suggests the leader of the UK could be influential but at the same time a source of social disharmony. A review of UK leaders shows that two of the more prominent ones in recent decades, Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair, became so controversial that their time in office was shortened. Gordon Brown, who replaced Blair, has not been Prime Minister for very long, but already he is struggling to maintain popular support for his government.

Prediction
On SAMVA list on March 16, 2010 the following was predicted:

“An examination of the period (Mars-Mercury) and transit (transit nodes conjunct natal 12th lord Sun, transit Sun conjunct 8th lord Mars in 8th house, transit nodes going stationary in the MEP of 4th and 10th houses, etc.) influences in the chart, suggests an outcome that is not in favour of the government. A political crisis in the wake of the election even looks like a possibility.”

Possible manifestation
Traditionally, the UK has two parties, the Tories and Labour, which receive the most votes. Other parties, like the Liberal Democrats and the Independence Party, have received more marginal support in the past. In the wake of the financial crisis, both the leading parties have lost credibility. Labour’s problem is that it has been in government since the mid 1990s. The crash took place on its watch. The quandry of the Tories is that they are associated with the types of free market and favour-the-rich policies which are considered at the root of the financial crisis.

In a recent televised debate, a young leader of the Liberal Democrats, Nicholas Clegg came out a winner. While there are more debates ahead and voters can be a fickle lot, a likely outcome of the election is that neither of the two traditional parties will receive the customary majority of the vote, in part due to the increased recent popularity of the Liberal Democrats.[1] Such an outcome will force the party with the greatest support among the three to seek to form a coalition government with one of the remaining parties in order to form a majority in the parliament. Alternatively, a minority government would be formed. In either case, potential political instability would be there. Having had a de facto two-party system for a long time, the UK is not used to such outcomes. At least the nodal station on top of the Sun in the chart, suggests some such outcome. This would, moreover, render the UK without effective leadership for some time, while a power-sharing arrangement is hashed out. While most of the tension will be felt in May, it is nevertheless expected to remain for most of the summer. Add to this, the opposition of 6th lord Saturn in Virgo with 4th lord Jupiter in Pisces, which also takes place in May, and it is likely such a strain in the political life will also be attended by a reduction in the collective harmony.

References
[1] "LibDems push Labour into third - poll", Reuters, Mon Apr 19, 2010 4:42pm BST
http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE63I44Z20100419?sp=true

TSUNAMI OF ANGER

The USA has endured pronounced communal disharmony in early 2010. The catalyst is the debate over reform of the US health care system. In the lead up to the passage of the historic legislation, a significant depth of distrust in the respective political factions was revealed in terms of vitriol in the public discourse.[1] This is in line with the prediction for the USA in early 2010 based on the SAMVA USA chart. The timing of the passage of the legislation is also remarkably consistent with the transit influences in the chart.

The debate
The socio-political developments in the USA in early 2010 have been nothing short of breathtaking.[2] A major overhaul of the health care system, inspired by President Obama's Democratic vision and a political majority in the US Congress, has been enacted. This bill was on the agenda of the Obama administration since mid 2009. In recent months, however, its passage was sidelined by the President's decision to engage the Republican opposition in a debate over the merits of such reform. The hope was that it would facilitate a compromise and, importantly, bring needed reforms to ensure health care coverage for a significant share of the US population, or over 30 million Americans, who up to this time were without such coverage.[3] The immediate effect of the debate was not to facilitate a compromise, however, but to draw out the anger of those who believe advances in social protection and the associated income redistribution is inherently wrong, even un-American. This polarization has led to the creation of a popular movement, the Tea Party, [4] and a political upset in the state of Massachusetts, which has been a stronghold of Democrats for over half a century, with the election of Republican Scott Brown as Senator in a special election in January to fill the seat of Edward Kennedy. The opponents maintain that the reforms run counter to the individual freedoms and responsibility enshrined in the US Constitution. Meanwhile, the Democratic majority hold that it is unconscionable to allow a large segment of society to go without proper health care, especially for a wealthy country like the USA.

Prediction
In the article Predictions for the USA in 2010 (December 30, 2009) the following dynamic was foreseen

Due to adverse transit influences, strains are expected in the housing market and for domestic peace at the beginning of the year.

Certainly, this prediction, based on the Systems' Approach, has been realised. It was further explained that

Venus is badly placed in the 6th house, which rules financial stability, enmity and health issues. This means that the indications ruled by Venus tend to be associated with conflict or debts.

In addition to the timing, the exact nature of the events was thus accurately predicted.

Astrology of early 2010
The transits in the SAMVA USA chart are quite clear on the evolution of this tension. As transit Rahu came into exact conjunction of natal Venus, as 4th lord of communal harmony, at 23° 50' Sagittarius and the 6th house, the tension peaked with the House of Representatives voting for the bill 219 for and 212 against on March 21. The bill was then signed into law just before noon time on March 23. This timing is no accident but an expression of the authentic chart. The fact that transit Sun, general indicator of the leader, the President, had moved past the exact aspect of transit Saturn, as 8th lord of obstacles and endings, meant he has surmounted the challenge. At the same time, it was a time of defeat for the opposition.

Looking forward, we can first note that the tension has not immediately died down. Transit Rahu lingered over this exact conjunction for the remainder of the week and will in coming weeks be near enough to Venus to bother its indications. As such, the communal harmony, which was predicted to suffer a setback based on astrological factors, is only gradually seen to be reduced as the aspect clears in April. At the same time, the energy of the opposition is likely to persist, with transit Jupiter as 6th lord of opposition, being under the transit aspect of Ketu, the lord of sudden violent events until April. There is also some possibility of a violent backlash in relation to the Jupiter-Saturn opposition that takes place this summer. Let's hope nothing bad happens, but already threats have been made against some Democratic legislators seen to be instrumental in the passage of the bill.[5]

Source
[1] "Quarter of Republicans think Barack Obama is 'the Antichrist' "
Los Angeles - 7:00AM GMT - 25 Mar 2010
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/7517186/Quarter-of-Republicans-think-Barack-Obama-is-the-Antichrist.html
[2] Frank Rich, "The Rage Is Not About Health Care", New York Times, March 27, 2010.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/28/opinion/28rich.html
[3]Wikipedia: Health care reform debate in the United States
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_care_reform_debate_in_the_United_States
[4] "Palin to tea party rally: Don't sit down, shut up," - Nevada (AP) - Mar 27, 7:52 PM
http://apnews.myway.com/article/20100328/D9ENAGDO0.html
[5] FBI investigating threats against Democrats after health care vote
March 24, 2010 - 4:19 PM
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/ondeadline/post/2010/03/fbi-investigating-threats-against-democrats-after-health-care-vote/1

Life and death of Malcolm X

One of the most famous civil rights leaders of the 1960s was Malcolm X. He was of African American descent and became an outspoken and controversial Muslim leader in the fight for black civil rights. 

Fallout with his mentor in March 1964 resulted in his religious conversion and the forming of a new church. In February 1965, he was assassinated while giving a speech. Men belonging to his former congregation were arrested, charged and convicted of his murder. 

The astrology of the times and this tragic event are examined in terms of the SAMVA USA chart. 

Synopsis of his life 

Malcolm X, was born in Omaha, Nebraska on May 19, 1925.[1] His given name was Malcolm Little. He died from gunshot wounds in New York City on February 21, 1965. 

He was also known as El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, an African-American Muslim minister, public speaker, and human rights activist. To his admirers, he was a courageous advocate for the rights of African Americans, a man who indicted white America in the harshest terms for its crimes against black Americans. His detractors accused him of preaching racism, black supremacy, anti-Semitism, and violence. He has been described as one of the greatest and most influential African Americans in history. 

By the time Malcolm X was thirteen, his father had died and his mother had been committed to a mental hospital. His childhood, including his father's lessons concerning black pride and self-reliance and his own experiences concerning race, played a significant role in Malcolm X's adult life. 

After living in a series of foster homes, Malcolm X became involved in hustling and other criminal activities in Boston and New York. In 1946, Malcolm X was sentenced to eight to ten years in prison. While in prison, Malcolm X became a member of the Nation of Islam. 

After his parole in 1952, he became one of the Nation's leaders and chief spokesmen. For nearly a dozen years, he was the public face of the Nation of Islam. Tension between Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad, head of the Nation of Islam, led to Malcolm X's departure from the organization in March 1964.

After leaving the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X became a Sunni Muslim and made a pilgrimage to Mecca, after which he disavowed racism. He traveled extensively throughout Africa and the Middle East. He founded Muslim Mosque, Inc., a religious organization, and the secular, Black Nationalist Organization of Afro-American Unity. Less than a year after he left the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X was assassinated while giving a speech in New York.[2] He had been threatened in his home prior to that. It is believed the assailants are members of the Black Muslim faith, which Malcolm had recently abandoned in favor of orthodox Islam.[3] 

Significance 
While Reverend Martin Luther King is perceived as the towering leader of the black equal rights movement, Malcolm X has a very special place in it. 

In his famous “I have a dream” speech on August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King became an icon of his people's peaceful urge to be accepted and a major figure of the idealism that is part of the collective conciousness of Americans. 

By comparison, Malcolm X belonged to those who were impatient and angry towards whites for centuries of abuses, going so far as to reject their faith and refuse their company. He went so far as calling those who participated in the white man's system as "house niggers," a reference to their slave origins in the USA. There was also an unrelated Black Panther movement in the 1960s adopting a revolutionary stance, emphasising also the assertion of black pride. 

In his last year of life, Malcolm X disavowed racism in any of its forms and sought peaceful change. In doing so, he increasingly aligned himself with the idealistic sentiments of the American people as a whole, earlier expressed by Martin Luther King, beginning to transcend the righteous anger associated with the injustices. 

Nevertheless, he continued to seek international condemnation of US practices in this regard. Indeed, the maltreatment of minorities, socio-economic injustices and the violence of daily life are a major blight on the American experience. This feature will likely always manifest in one form or another in the national life. 

At the same time, the strong sense of idealism that is at the heart of a ceaseless struggle to overcome or transcend social injustices and the associated violence has made the USA frequently a tragic yet one of the most fascinating and inspiring countries in the world. 

Astrology of Saturn period 

The 1960s were a decade of social upheaval, where the Vietnam War, civil rights and the idealism of the young collided. The Saturn major period (April 1953- April 1972) was operating. 

Saturn rules the common people. In the SAMVA USA chart, Saturn is 8th lord and thus rules obstacles and endings, beliefs of the people, bureaucratic obstructions or delays and easy gains. As Saturn is placed in the 5th house, the energy is felt more acutely by young people, in the creative sphere and in universities. 

During the 1950s, the Beat Generation launched an examination of the vacuousness of daily middle-class life with its seemingly robotic emphasis on only working to acquire a home, appliances, a car, while offering tacit support to a "Military-Industrial Complex" engaged in a potentially deadly Cold War with the Soviet Union and China. This intellectual development of the young evolved into the Hippy movement in the 1960s and the so-called summer of love. 

Natally, Saturn also aspects the Sun as 2nd lord of wealth and status and Sun is a general indicator of the leader of the country, the President. A lot of the frustration was directed at the sitting Presidents, especially Lyndon B. Johnson, who opted out of running for a second term in 1968. His successor, Richard M. Nixon, was also strained by the demands of young people and discontent with the war. 

As Saturn is 8th lord of the transcendent, psychedelic drugs became popular and they eventually zapped the idealism and vibrancy of the youth movement. 

As regards, the civil rights struggle, it is linked to the placement of Ketu, which rules those separated or isolated in life, on the most effective point of the 4th house in the chart, ruling communal harmony. Ketu also aspects the 8th house of obstacles and death, ruled by Saturn. Ketu's own dispositor, Venus, is placed in the 6th house of the chart, suggesting conflict over those things that separate people within the nation. 

Since its founding, blacks and other minorities have been subject to being marginalized and made to feel separate from the rest of society. During the Saturn period of social upheaval, young people began to adopt a more aggressive stance towards this problem. Malcolm X, who was in his thirties during this time, became one of the most famous and respected spokesmen of the plight of his people, although many also disagreed with his approach.

Assassination 
On February 21, 1965, in Manhattan's Audubon Ballroom, Malcolm X began to speak to a meeting of the Organization of Afro-American Unity when a disturbance broke out in the crowd of 400. A man yelled, "Nigger! Get your hand outta my pocket!" As Malcolm X and his bodyguards moved to quiet the disturbance, a man rushed forward and shot him in the chest with a sawed-off shotgun. Two other men charged the stage and fired handguns, hitting him 16 times. 

Angry onlookers caught and beat one of the assassins as the others fled the ballroom. Malcolm X was pronounced dead at 3:30 p.m., shortly after he arrived at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. Three men belonging to the Nation of Islam were arrested and imprisoned for the murder. Malcolm X left a wife and four young children and millions of Americans stricken with grief. 

Astrology of the event

 On the day of his assassination, the Saturn-Moon period was in operation. Transit Moon was at 23° Libra and 4th house in opposition to transit 6th lord Jupiter at 25° Aries and 10th house. The strong Moon representing the self of the American people and sub-period lord at this time was focused on the communal harmony. Under the influence of the lord of conflict, there was discord in the air. 

Transit Jupiter was also aspecting natal 4th lord Venus at 24° Sagittarius and 6th house, with a sense of conflict disturbing the peace in the community. Transit Ketu was exactly conjunct natal Saturn at 27° Scorpio and 5th house. A sudden violent event brought death. Transit Rahu at 27° Taurus and 11th house was aspecting natal 2nd lord Sun at 24° Capricorn and 7th house as well as transit 4th lord Venus at 27° Capricorn, further undermining the communal harmony. 

Transit Saturn was in its own sign Aquarius and 8th house, but under the aspect of natal Ketu, bringing a sudden and violent event causing a separation. Saturn was also conjunct transit Sun diminishing the status of the USA due to such an event taking place. Also in the 8th house was 3rd lord Mercury linked to an action causing death. Malcolm X possibly had Sagittarius as a rising sign.[4] 

Source 

[1] Malcolm X - Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malcolm_X 

[2] Time of death and a photo of deceased Malcolm X http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2010/0319103malcolmx1.html 

[3] The assailants http://www.infoplease.com/spot/civilrightstimeline1.html#events-1960 

[4] Malcolm X birth information http://www.astrotheme.fr/

Inviolability of the Union

The SAMVA USA chart is based on the event when the perpetual Union of the American States was formed.

It is clear that the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union established by law the United States of America as a national entity. The Union that the founders, including George Washington, had created was put to the test in the Civil War and survived due to a determined effort under Abraham Lincoln's leadership.[1] Furthermore, following the war, it was adjudicated that under American constitutional law, this concept means that states are not permitted to withdraw from the Union.

When the U. S. Constitution replaced the Articles, nothing in it specifically stated that the Union is perpetual. Even after the Civil War, which had been fought by the North to confirm the inviolability of the Union, some still questioned whether any such inviolability survived after the Constitution replaced the Articles. That issue was settled in the 1869 United States Supreme Court case Texas v. White. In that case, the court determined that the drafters intended the perpetuity of the Union to survive:

By [the Articles of Confederation], the Union was solemnly declared to "be perpetual." And when these Articles were found to be inadequate to the exigencies of the country, the Constitution was ordained "to form a more perfect Union." It is difficult to convey the idea of indissoluble unity more clearly than by these words. What can be indissoluble if a perpetual Union, made more perfect, is not? [2]

In other words, the formation of the perpetual Union, by defining the ties which make the United States of America a nation, constitutes its true founding event.

Source
[1] Perpetual Union
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perpetual_Union
[2] Texas v. White, 74 U. S. 700 (1868)
http://supreme.justia.com/us/74/700/case.html

Rise of U.S. Imperial Power

The emergence of the USA as a truly imperial power took place at the close of the 19th century. This 1898 political cartoon in the Philadelphia Press depicts the extension of the United States dominion as "Ten Thousand Miles From Tip to Tip".

The exertion of US military power around the globe coincided with the first full major period of the Sun (April 19, 1896-to April 19, 1902) in the SAMVA USA chart (Perpetual Union). The Sun is strong and powerfully placed in the chart as 2nd lord of wealth and status on the most effective point of the 7th house ruling foreign policy. This is important, as the second major period of the Sun will commence in 2016, suggesting the USA will then assert its even greater influence in the world. A reading of history based on the earlier Sun period in the SAMVA USA chart is revealing in this regard. It is possible a new leadership in the US some years hence may even seek to expand into space to solve the economic and social problems at home.

Origins of the expansion
The founders of the USA planted the seeds of national greatness that has been the hallmark of the USA ever since.

"In his last years in office, an embattled President George Washington yearned for a time when this nation will possess the strength of a Giant and there will be none who can make us afraid."[1]

Scholars have debated why the U.S. became expansionist at the close of the 19th century. There are likely many reasons. By the late 19th century the U.S. had completed its "Westward expansion." The country had also been suffering from demand side problems in the economy since the Panic of 1873. This period has been termed "The Long Depression". The spell was not really broken until 1896, when monetary expansion surged ahead, helped by the "Klondike Gold Rush" in the latter half of the 1890s. In the famous work of Milton Friedman and Anna J. Schwarts on the monetary history of the United States, the following statement is fascinating in this regard

"The final years of the [19th] century saw a dramatic reversal of economic conditions. The stock of money had fluctuated about roughly a constant level from 1892 to 1897, in June 1896 it was lower than in June 1892, in June 1897 about the same as in June 1892. From then on it rebounded upward at an extraordinary rate...to 1902 - a cumulative increase of 80 per cent in five years."

This coincides exactly with the six year run of the Sun major period in the SAMVA USA chart from 1896 to 1902. It is not a coincidence that such a mighty rebound occurred in monetary and economic conditions, which are a key indication of the Sun, during its major period.

In any event, some scholars suggest the expansion of US power around the globe was considered a way to get the U.S. economy out of its sluggishness and problems. Despite enormous economic development following the Civil War (1861-1865), when the US built up its industrial infrastructure and then its military strength, grave social problems had emerged giving rise to social conflict over festering inequality and social injustices. As the new century beckoned - and the Sun period began - these clouds began to lift. In the earlier article From Gilded Age to Progressive Era, this socio-economic and political shift has been explained. There were also external pressures in the 1890s that accelerated U.S. efforts to expand its naval capabilities, especially the rise of colonial powers in Europe. Importantly, such efforts went into high gear following the landslide election in 1896 of William McKinley as U.S. President, at the onset of the Sun major period. In the 1900 election, McKinley emphasised the benign nature of the expansion: "The American flag has not been planted in foreign soil to acquire more territory but for humanity's sake."

"United States expansionism had its roots in domestic concerns and economic conditions, as in other newly industrializing nations where government sought to accelerate internal development. Advocates of empires also drew upon a tradition of westward expansion over the course of the previous century. Economic depression led some U.S. businessmen and politicians from the mid-1880s to come to the same conclusion as their European counterparts — that industry and capital had exceeded the capacity of existing markets and needed new outlets. The "closing of the Frontier" identified by the 1890 Census report and publicized by historian Frederick Jackson Turner in his 1893 paper The Significance of the Frontier in American History, contributed to fears of constrained natural resource. Like the Long Depression in Europe, the main features of the U.S. depression included deflation, rural decline, and unemployment, which aggravated the bitter social protests of the "Gilded Age" — the Populist movement, the free-silver crusade, and violent labor disputes such as the Pullman and Homestead strikes. The Panic of 1893 contributed to the growing mood for expansionism. Influential politicians such as Henry Cabot Lodge, William McKinley, and Theodore Roosevelt advocated a more aggressive foreign policy to pull the United States out of the depression." [3]

Parallels to our own time
As in the latter decades of the 19th century, the US has been suffering from significant social and economic problems during the recent periods of Ketu (1989-1996) and Venus (1996-2016). A predicted U.S. resurgence will likely take place in the coming Sun major period (2016-2022). This could involve a re-exertion of U.S. military power in the world or a significant push to expand the frontier of space.

Economist & Author Ravi Batra has written a fascinating book, The Golden New Age, predicting major political reforms in coming years to resolve the social malaise of inequalities and economic problems. He mentions the election year 2016, which coincides with the beginning of the forthcoming Sun period, as potentially important in this regard.[4] He also suggests a historic shift in societal values from acquisitive to warrior like. In this regard we can think about the booming genre of action movies with super charged heros and the growing respect for people in uniform. Should they be considered a harbinger of such a social transformation? If history is anything to go by, Batra may well prove right, although the extent or timing of such socio-political changes is uncertain.

Source
[1] Herring, George, C. (2008). From Colony to Superpower - U.S. Foreign Relations since 1776. Oxford University Press, New York.
[2] Friedman, Milton and Anna J. Schwarts (1963). A Monetary History of the United States, 1867-1960. Princeton University Press, Princeton.
[3] New Imperialism
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Imperialism
[4] Batra, Ravi (2007). The New Golden Age - The Coming Revolution against Political Corruption and Economic Chaos. Palgrave MacMillan, New York.

Currency strength

A natal horoscope for a country can be read to reveal its future trends and events. It can also be read in comparison with the horoscope of another nation to reveal the relative currency strength of the two countries, the exchange rate.

In this article, the inherent strength of the UK Pound Sterling and the US dollar is read from the respective national charts. The strength of the currency indications in the respective horoscopes is then compared and contrasted, the long term trend noted and a prediction made.

Exchange rates

To many, the concept of an exchange rate is not so easy to understand. This is understandable as it tends to become a complicated matter in daily usage. However, some may find the following explanation helpful, while others may skip it and proceed to the next section. The exchange rate is the price of one currency in terms of another. In other words, it tells us how many units of a national currency are required in exchange for one unit of another currency. If a national currency is strong, it means the people of that country don't have to give up as much of it to obtain other currencies. The opposite would be the case if the national currency is weak. With a strong currency one obtains goods abroad at lower prices. However, the downside is that foreigners do not find the prices of our goods as favourable to buy. In other words, the pricier a currency is, the less well the country would tend to do in balancing its foreign trade, as it would tend to import more than it exports. Fortunately, price is not the only consideration as people also look to their income to decide if they want to spend to obtain a foreign good or service. Over a long time, the exchange rates may show clear trends, either up or down, depending on if one country is more dynamic than another or has some critical advantages influencing money flows. Another thing that may add to the confusion of understanding exchange rates is that their values change quite a bit over time. This is because currencies are traded continuously and the value depends on how many people want to either sell or buy the currencies at any given time and for how much. Moreover, people and companies trade currencies for different reasons. Many do so because they intend to buy foreign goods while others do so because they are aiming to reduce the risk of their international commercial dealings or speculating in the hope of earning a profit. Invariably, the gain of one person is another's loss. Interestingly, the flow in and out of currencies any given day is very large and most of it is for financial reasons and only a fraction to finance merchandise trade. In this regard, we can note that investors may place their money in a foreign country if they have confidence that the investment will return a profit. Countries with stronger currencies tend to benefit by sustained foreign inflows of capital (large sums of money) and tend to pay lower interest rates on such monies (loans or investments) than countries with less currency strength. To this we may add that when participants on global financial markets become worried about their investments, major moves can take place, with capital rushing out of one country and into another, with currency values then in wild swings. Normally, investors flee out of weaker currencies and into safe-haven currencies (noted for their strength or resilience) during difficult times. This quality may also depend on the size of the currency area and its liqudity, the ease with which one can sell a currency without affecting its price on the market.

Astrology of exchange rates

Astrologer & author V. K. Choudhry gave the following definition of currency strength on the SAMVA list on September 26, 2000, prompted by my question:

“It is the power of the state which is shown through the strength of the currency. The authority is first vested in the Sun and then in the Moon. The good financial strength of the nation/wealth is seen through the second house and the regular flow of income is seen through the eleventh house. Taken all these four together they show the real strength of the currency of a particular country.”

Currency strength of a nation thus depends on the integrity of and trust in a state (Sun), the government and the policies it may implement (Moon) as well as the income and wealth of the country. The power of the state may be linked to the size and endowments of the state and its track record in defending its interests in the past. The policies may either help or hinder the wealth generating potential of the economy, including the operation of markets. Markets may be given an excessively free rein or be constrained to the point that they do not yield the optimal outcome. The laws of the country set the rules of the game that either help to resolve ambiguities of what is fair for investors and consumers or they may be unclear and/or biased, such that they favour either seller or buyer at the expense of the other. It is a complex matter. That said, we can look to the natal potential of a horoscope to see the bottom line, in terms of the expected long term trend of currency strength. Over shorter time spans, the astrological analysis of the external value of a currency are linked to the changes between the major or sub-periods of the planets and significant events indicated by transits, which bring either advances or setbacks.

Horoscope of the UK

The horoscope of the United Kingdom has 16° Virgo rising with 2nd lord Venus well placed at 25° 27' Capricorn and the 5th house under. Venus is well placed in the 4th house of the Navamsa (D-IX) chart, supporting the strength of Venus in the natal (Rasi or D-I) chart. Venus is also well placed in the sign Leo in the Hora (D-II) chart. A planet in the sign Leo in the Hora chart becomes affluent. Venus is thus in good strength in the chart. It is, however, receiving an aspect from functional malefic Ketu at 22° 59' Virgo and 1st house, which could bring sudden adverse developments, but as the aspect has an orb of 2° 28' it is not strongly felt. In other words, the wealth of the British tends to be linked to their creativity and speculation. Not surprisingly, London is one of the major finance capitals of the world. The Moon becomes 11th lord of income and it is well placed at 28° 20' Gemini and the 10th house. The income is therefore strongly linked to foreign trade and the laws, but also the government, as Moon is the general indicator of the cabinet. As such, the Moon becomes a dual indicator of currency strength. In Navamsa chart, Moon is in 2nd house and in Hora chart it is in Cancer, its own sign. As the Moon is in old age in the Rasi chart, however, its overall strength is considerably reduced. Moreover, 12th lord Sun aspects the 10th house, indicating foreign developments and losses reduce the currency strength. The Ekadasmsa (D-XI) chart of income also comes with problems, including Moon as 5th lord of speculation conjunct Saturn as 12th lord of losses in the 5th house. This may further harm the Moon's general indications in the Rasi chart. The final indicator of currency strength, the Sun, at 19° 00' Sagittarius, is in the most effective point (MEP) of the 4th house. As such, the Sun also aspects its own house of placement, reducing its own strength. It is however well placed in the 5th house of Navamsa chart but in Cancer in the Hora chart. The authority of the state is not as helpful as it could be. Lastly, the planet Mars, as 8th lord of obstacles and endings, is at 20° 40' Aries and 8th house, where it is aspecting both the 11th house of income and 2nd house of wealth, as well as the 3rd house of enterprise, this is unhelpful to currency strength. The orb however is wide, reducing the significance. Nevertheless, as the UK chart is running the Mars major period from 2006-2012, this would not be seen to be helpful to the value of the pound during that period, especially during the Saturn sub-period from May 2008 to June 2009, when the pound suffered a sharp drop. Overall, we get a mixed picture with the 2nd lord clearly the most helpful to currency strength whereas the Moon and Sun, while well placed, have their strength compromised.

Horoscope of the USA

In the SAMVA USA chart the indications of currency strength are in a class by themselves. The Sun becomes both 2nd lord and general indicator of currency strength in this chart. It is strong at 23° 44' Capricorn and in the MEP of the 7th house, thus also favourably aspecting the 1st house of self. While the Sun is placed in the sign Leo and 8th house of the Navamsa chart where it is conjunct 12th lord Jupiter, which reduces the strength at bit, it is in the sign Leo of the Hora chart, which boosts the strength. The 8th lord Saturn at 26° 46' Scorpio and 5th house aspects the Sun. However, the aspect is over 3° orb and the Sun is not influenced to a significant extent. Overall, the wealth generating potential and authority of the state is significantly good and involves foreign policy (7th house) and contributes to a healthy self-image (1st house). As Taurus, a non-Moolatrikona sign, is in the 11th house there is no 11th lord and this house is not afflicted, suggesting income would not be a major problem for the USA. Moreover, the Ekadasamsa (D-XI) chart of income is generally ok, although not perfect. Importantly, the other general indicator of currency strength, the Moon as 1st lord, is exalted at 7° 19' Taurus and well placed in the 11th house. This suggests that economic policies are geared to being income generating. The Moon is well placed in the 3rd house of initiative of the Navamsa chart, conjunct Saturn as 2nd lord of wealth and FM Ketu of sudden setbacks. American's tend to be entrepreneurial and wealth seeking, but the history shows volatility in this regard. In the Hora chart the Moon is placed in the sign Cancer. Moreover, in the Rasi chart, it receives two aspects, one from 6th lord Jupiter at 4° 25' Scorpio and 5th house and 10th lord Mars at 10° 07' Scorpio. The former aspect is not close enough to have a material negative effect and the influence of Mars is only helpful. The USA has been running the inauspicious period of Venus since 1996. This period has been associated with a bubble inflating and then bursting in the US housing market, followed by a banking crisis. An overall assessment is of great currency strength, consistent with the US dollar being a safe-haven currency in the world.

Long term exchange rate
We can now compare and contrast the evolution of the long term value of the UK Pound Sterling and the US dollar in terms of an analysis of their respective horoscopes. The accompanying chart shows the long term trend. The value of the UK Pound has fallen in a rather steady manner for almost one century with respect to the US dollar. This is not surprising as the USA has been in ascendancy in this period while the Sun has set on the British empire. After World War II, the international order of the British Empire, referred to as the Pax Brittannica, was replaced by the USA assuming the mantle in what became known as the Pax Americana.

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Recent and future developments

Following the collapse of the Bretton Woods system in the early 1970s, the dollar has continued to gain on the Pound. While there has been volatility, reflecting the period and transit influences in both charts, the trend line has clearly been lower, such that those buying a pound with dollars now pay less than they did some forty years ago. Moreover, while there have been concerns about the long term viability of the dollar, given the debt of the US government and during the recent adverse planetary periods, it is expected that when the Sun major period rolls around in 2016, the integrity of the US dollar will be boosted. In the interim period, given the even more adverse major period of Mars in the UK horoscope until 2012, the UK pound may experience a further trend decline relative to the US dollar.