I humbly submit a possible solution to problems in Iraq. We might allow the three primary ethnic groups -- Sunni, Kurd, and Shiite -- to become self-determining and to form their own governments.

Here are five reasons why such a division might work.

First, prior to World War I, Iraq did not exist. Iraq was created by the British who wanted to expand their empire (imperialism and colonialism) into the remnants of the vanquished Ottoman Empire.

Second, the factions obviously cannot get along without some strong dictator enforcing the "peace." Democracy may yet again fail.

Third, the country is neatly divided geographically already along these lines: Kurds primarily in the North, Sunnis in the middle, and Shiites to the south and east.

They are distinct ethnic and cultural groups. Why not allow them to divide? Why force them to try to get along in an artificial "unity"?

Fourth, such a division solves all squabbles over unequal representation. Each group can be the majority in their own countries.

Fifth, the USA may exit much earlier. Our leaving will help calm the whole region.

One might raise objections to my proposal. With three countries instead of one, we might not be able to guarantee friendly access to all their oil. However, the administration has assured us that our presence in Iraq is not at all related to oil but only to the liberation of the Iraqi people and the formation of democracy. My proposal is fully democratic.

One might reason that there must be a militarily strong neighbor to Iran to balance her power. Realistically, Iraq will not be strong militarily for many years.

This plan is simple. It gives democracy a better chance of succeeding in the region and rights the past wrong of colonialism.

Charles F. Taylor

Louisville, Ky.