China has experienced rapid economic growth and development over the last 25 years, bringing hundreds of millions out of poverty and achieving a growth rate of 9% annually. Its economy is expected to triple in size over the next 15 years and may surpass the US by 2039. Additionally, China has significantly expanded its military capabilities in recent years, developing new missiles, aircraft, and naval vessels, though its goals remain economic growth and regional stability rather than conflict with the US.

1. Who’s on Deck? China’s Acceleration towards World Economic Dominance and Military Power. Caleb Zipperstein A Block January 8, 2007

6. America’s Number One Cash Crop

12. Military Expansion

17. “ Shanghai, China's financial capital and largest city, boasts 4,000 skyscrapers — twice as many as New York City. China's $1.6 trillion economic output is expected to triple in 15 years, overtaking the United States by 2039. Critics say low wages and unfair trade and currency policies are behind China's economic success as well as the loss of millions of jobs in the United States and other nations.” AFP/Getty Images/Liu Jin