I studied this theory of Chinese dynasties about 10 years ago at the University of Washington and made a connection then between the USA and this theory.
Wikipedia (I know) has a pretty good synopsis of the theory here...
According to Chinese political theory, every dynasty goes through a dynastic cycle.
A new ruler: Unites China, founds a new dynasty, and gains the Mandate of Heaven. (“Ancestors”, p 78.)
China, under the new dynasty, achieves prosperity and a new golden age. ("Chinese Dynastic Cycle")
The population increases ("Chinese Dynastic Cycle")
Corruption becomes rampant in the imperial court, and the empire begins to enter decline and instability.("Chinese Dynastic Cycle")
A natural disaster wipes out farm land. The disaster normally would not have been a problem; however, together with the corruption and overpopulation it causes famine.(“Ancestors”, p 78.)
The famine causes the population to rebel and starts a civil war (“Ancestors”, p 78.)
The ruler loses the Mandate of Heaven.(“Ancestors”, p 78.) ("Chinese Dynastic Cycle")
The population decreases because of the violence ("Mountain of Fame" p35)
One warring state begins to gain power ("Mountain of Fame" p35)
One state emerges victorious ("Chinese Dynastic Cycle")
The state starts a new empire (“Ancestors”, p 78.) ("Chinese Dynastic Cycle")
The empire gains the Mandate of Heaven. (“Ancestors”, p 78.) ("Chinese Dynastic Cycle")
(The cycle repeats itself)
The Mandate of Heaven was the idea that the Emperor was favored by god to rule over China. The Mandate of Heaven was created by the Chinese philosopher Mencius, during the Period of Warring States. (“Ancestors”, p 78.)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dynastic_cycleSubstitute China with USA....remove mandate from heaven and replace it with mandate from the people....