What if America’s economic crash is regional?

We remember the Great Depression as a national calamity. But some parts of the country were slammed far harder than others.

There were stark differences between urban and rural communities, and sharp contrasts from one region to the next.

What if the same happens this cycle? If Detroit implodes, what happens to Michigan? Does the rest of the country keep writing fat checks?

And what about other parts of the country that once relied on manufacturing for their economic base? Ohio, upstate New York, New Jersey — if they can’t reinvent themselves, how should the nation respond?

It’s said that a rising tide lifts all boats, but the last couple of recessions have left some parts of America crippled. This cycle could be even more damaging to vast swaths of the country.

Even in good times, America has seen growing regional disparities between educational and economic attainment.

Two years from now, we could find islands of real prosperity rebuilding in the U.S., surrounded by growing regions of essentially permanent malaise.

And if the recovery is spotty, how will the North Country fare? Opinions? Comment below.