Do two walk together, Unless they have agreed?
No matter how men resent and oppose this view of history, it is nevertheless the truth.  Nebuchadnezzar was compelled to eat grass with the beasts of the earth for seven years in order that he might know that, "The Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will"  (Daniel 4:25).  Paul affirmed that, "God made of one every nation of men ... and determined their appointed seasons, and the bounds of their habitation, that they should seek God" (Acts 17:26,27).  The reason that one nation is blessed is that they might seek God and lead others to know him; and the reason that another nation is oppressed is that they may be punished for their iniquities and know repentance.