The National Museum of Crime and Punishment in Washington D.C. has plenty of Mafia memorabilia and even some Ted Kaczynski stuff — but so far nothing from politicians, bankers or lobbyists.

In his State of the Union speech this week President Obama said the U.S. was “built to last,” and not in decline. The facts (for those with eyes to see) indicate otherwise. One reason is because so many Americans, especially Mr. Obama and his predecessors, have embraced the dark side — as a way of life.

Photographs: Stephen Wise

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