The authors offer the image of our nation as a nautical convoy. Some boats are large, well built, and able to ride out the heaviest of turbulent seas. Others are smaller, but still quite sturdy, and able to survive. Many however, are fragile, meagerly equipped, and easily capsized in rough waters. This convoy is in the midst of a perfect storm that is the result of a confluence of three powerful forces. The authors document and describe these three forces: (1) divergent skill distributions among U.S. population groups; (2) changing economy; and (3) demographic trends of a growing, more diverse population. They project the impact of these interactions upon the nation 25 years into the future. Kirsch and his colleagues warn us that the confluence of these factors can create a powerful dynamic that continually feeds the storm --putting this nation at great risk. They offer hope, however, that if Americans act now and invest in policies that will help the nation grow as one, traditional ideals as a nation offering real opportunity for all its citizens can be met, and America can continue its leading role in the world. (Contains 22 tables and 5 figures.)