More of the history lesson

"As the years went by, the financial benefit of having States as colonies dwindled, & almost all were released from the original agreements. The population had dropped drastically, with any men able to serve in the military having been conscripted. Most states had little to no infrastructure, & they also now had no governing bodies or workers. All of the original politicians were dead, & anyone with an idea tried to take over. Revolutions sprang up in almost every state, & anyone with the slightest bit of political ambition tried to take control."

"Eventually, 2 nations emerged. Oregon, Washington, & the surviving bit of California were united with the goal of recreating the USA. However, on the other side, an oil tycoon from the South named James Dennik led a private army to victory, controlling the country from Florida to Illinois."

You lie back in the bed, trying to take in the sudden influx of information. The paradigm shift you are experiencing almost hurts to comprehend - The United States is gone, & most likely everyone you ever knew, worked with, or loved is dead.

"You said 'President' Davis. I take it he is in charge of the West?", you ask.

"She, & yes. When we found out that you were still alive in a prison on the East coast, we launched a commando team to get you out. Believe it or not, we are in a dire need of seasoned statesmen."

Meredith tosses you a change of clothes. "Come on; The President's waiting."