EI Weekly Listen

<div>The US must adopt a grand strategy of democratic expansion. Only then can global security be established. Read by Helen Lloyd.<br> <br> Image: American Second World War-era poster. Credit: Mouseion Archives / Alamy Stock Photo </div>

<div>The tumultuous relationship between Red China and the Soviet Union hints at an uncertain future for the Sino-Russian partnership. Read by Helen Lloyd.<br> <br> Image: Sino-Soviet propaganda poster. Credit: Album / Alamy Stock Photo</div>

<div>Stagnation at home and turmoil abroad demand a radical rethink of how – and why – Britain forges its future leaders. Read by Helen Lloyd.<br> <br> Image: The Treasury building in Whitehall, London. Credit: mauritius images GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo </div>

<div>Few ancient monarchs have enjoyed such a consistent positive reputation as Cyrus the Great. Perhaps it’s time to become reacquainted. Read by Helen Lloyd.<br> <br> Image: The Tomb of Cyrus, Iran. Photograph taken in 1898. Credit: Penta Springs Limited / Alamy Stock Photo </div>

<div>Catherine II’s inoculation against smallpox was an extraordinary act of political self-creation. Read by Helen Lloyd.<br> <br> Image: A portrait of Catherine the Great (1729-1796) by Alexey Antropov. Credit: Pictorial Press Ltd / Alamy Stock Photo</div>