And I want to unleash the great power of our economy, so Americans who are looking for work can find it.

WHITEHOUSE: Helping Small Businesses Grow and Create New Jobs

Question number one is whether the would-be great power's economy will be rich enough to buy it a military force that can be used far afield, not just in the area immediately around its borders.

ECONOMIST: THE NEXT BALANCE OF POWER

By 1500, with a stagnant economy and falling population, Venice's descent from great power was well under way.

ECONOMIST: Creating economic wealth

On February 15, 2011, President Barack Obama announced the America's Great Outdoors Report, the Administration's action plan under the America's Great Outdoors initiative to achieve lasting conservation of the outdoor spaces that power our nation's economy, shape our culture, and build our outdoor traditions.

WHITEHOUSE: America's Great Outdoors Initiative