What if this economic downturn occurred in the 80s

[jimmy olsen]

I thought there was a major recession in the 1980's.

Me too, the one that a charismatic new president came in and "fixed", with a subsequent massive increase in the federal debt.

Oh wait.....

Also, I got to say I love your avatar.

[citizen k]

Also, I got to say I love your avatar.

Russians keep their 'Fat Cats' (oligarchs) on a short leash?

[crazy canuck]

The US didn't have active organized communists 25 years ago and I think Europe still does.  Might be a Canada-specific observation.  Either way there wouldn't be much difference.  As long as a broad consensus exists in favor of private ownership of the means of production a minority, no matter how well organized, is going to impose its will.

It is a Canadian specific observation as I was talking about the Canadian left in the OP.  Back then the NDP had real socialists who firmly believed in taking away private ownership rights or at the very least significantly reducing those rights. 

If this crisis deepens I wonder whether these kinds of movements will come back to life

[KRonn]

I guess this economic mess has certainly energized the lefty types - commies, extremies,  what ever. But it's also pissed off and energized people of every other political persuasion as well. Seems though, that at least some of the left is more organized and looking to make gains with things, unions, more socialist type changes in economies, if they can.