Exactly what does a solar eclipse mean for economic trends, for geopolitical affairs, and for the market actions and trends that can create the potential upheavals so likely in those broad-based arenas? That's the primary focus of this book. As a planet, we get at least two solar eclipses during each calendar year, as the shifting celestial dynamics of Earth, Moon, and Sun create specific alignments at predictable intervals. Those solar eclipses vary in scope and intensity - some are partial eclipses, with the Moon just covering a portion of the Sun's visible orb. Others are annular events, with the corona of the Sun creating a "ring of fire" effect as the Moon obscures most of the solar surface. Still others are total eclipses, with the Sun completely hidden behind the Moon. Even though solar eclipses are not rare, some of them take on much stronger roles in the public consciousness than others. That fluctuation in awareness is largely due to the attention that's generated in the specific geographic areas in which the eclipse is visible to the naked eye. When an eclipse is going to be visible locally it gets lots of press in advance. But if it can't been seen from our own back yard, we tend to ignore it altogether. In this book we are concerned not only with the distinctive features of solar eclipses, but also with their likely impact on global and geopolitical events, on the public consciousness in America and throughout the world, on the financial and equities markets, and on our personal lives as well. In examining those connections, we look at significant precursor eclipses from the past, examining the astrological chart for the current solar eclipse and its alignments as a transiting factor to the horoscopes of selected financial entities and international markets, and using a variety of astrological tools to project longer-lasting consequences during the months following the date of the solar eclipse. Each solar eclipse has effects that last at least until the next eclipse, and sometimes much longer than that. This study provides individual perspectives as well as global ones, with the clear understanding that the two are intrinsically interdependent. As we connect with planetary rhythms and cosmic cycles, we not only get a sense of just how finite our own petty cares actually are; we also gain the reassurance and ultimate sense of purpose that an ordered universe has to offer us - we can understand that our lives are not random and we are not condemned to be victims. Pausing to contemplate natural rhythms and their cosmic implications can give us many rich rewards in unexpected ways. From an individual perspective, we can learn a lot from our natal horoscopes, which reveal the unique imprint of cosmic energies that make us the remarkable people twe are, with all our latent capabilities and our potential for happiness and fulfillment. While we may see our idiosyncrasies and foibles in uncomfortable clarity, we can also confirm who we are and what we can contribute to the world around us. At a global level, we can use the power of astrology to enrich our experience and comprehension. Through the study of mundane astrology - the branch of the cosmic science connecting geopolitical and economic affairs with planetary cycles - we can gain a more sanguine attitude toward world events. We no longer have to succumb to fear or submit to demagoguery, but can choose more reasoned and tolerant assumptions instead. That's where the power of eclipses comes in. Of all the planetary dynamics influencing world affairs, eclipses are the most potent. Each eclipse offers new circumstances to ponder, new lessons to learn, and new paradigms for our role in global affairs. Along the way, we can strengthen our own individual character, discover fresh opportunities to enrich and enhance our personal well-being, and open ourselves up to new paths of service and social contributio