90 Cherokee stumper

Gentleman (and any member of the opposite sex) start your brains. 1990 Jeep Cherokee limited 4.0 liter straight 6 engine with no modifications. I was driving down the road, and with no advanced notice, I hear a loud pop and the engine dies. Under the hood all looks normal. It took quite some time to get the engine to start which normally starts easily. Upon getting it started again I determine that any use of electrical power causes the engine to die. This includes blinker, flashers, brake (lights), etc. Sooo, after I decided it wasn't going to get me home I called to get my money's worth of the AAA membership for the new year. While waiting I turned the ignition off and turned on the flashers. They worked fine. I can't think of any other facts to help but throw any questions at me that might help and I'll respond ASAP.

Thanks in advance for any response that might help.