arielbit, thanks for this. I'm still looking into the pros and cons of shortwave for this application - plenty to learn! For instance, do you know how/if the "Rural Mesh Network" above could be adapted to be independent from the internet?
yes the "Rural Mesh Network" can be independent from the internet..it is like a separate internet from "the internet" but being disconnected from the internet will prevent you from accessing servers from a different location (e.g. google.com)
http://wirelessafrica.meraka.org.za/wiki/index.php/DIY_Mesh_Guide_Downloadusing dd-wrt, an open source hack to cheap routers gives some advanced routing features needed for networking. even Linux pc's can be used as routers.
https://www.pfsense.org/i think we should still interconnect any network (e.g. rural wireless mesh, shortwave/HAM radio) to the internet because internet is already inside peoples homes, in their pc's and gadgets..this will greatly increase adoption of crypto currency. These networks should function as backup network or an alternative route for transactions..just like being able to get your money from an ATM in Bank A and an ATM in Bank B even though your money is deposited in Bank C (their ATM networks are interconnected)
One of the arguments for being able to withstand the government's documented moves towards controlling Bitcoin[1], is that mining can move to any jurisdiction and any means of internet connection, even low bandwidth shortwave or HAM radio.
Who ever is rolling on this with professionalism will receive funding to help make it a reality for common people, if any coin I am involved with reached fruition.
So do your homework now.