Chinese President Jiang's 1997 visit to America to meet President Clinton, the dangers of a strong Chinese economy, and Saddam Hussein's threat to shoot down planes over Iraq.

Alistair Cooke discusses the reality of wind chill, questionnaires for appointing cabinet officers and the secrets to old age.

Alistair Cooke explains how America was able to wait patiently for the confirmation of their new president, George Bush.

Alistair Cooke contemplates the pros and cons of democracy and the role of America's Electoral College.

Alistair Cooke asks whether the doubts about the result of the Florida vote are paralysing America's government.

Alistair Cooke examines the voting irregularities of 1876 and applies the lessons learned from them to the current electoral crisis in Florida.

Alistair Cooke looks at the origins of Thanksgiving and seasonal trends in food.

The various legal issues underlying the failure to elect either George W Bush or Al Gore as president are explained by Alistair Cooke.

Given the closeness of the recent election, Alistair Cooke asks what sort of mandate the next President will really possess.

Democrat or Republican? Gore or Bush? Who will be the next President? Alistair Cooke reviews the two candidates.

Alistair Cooke looks forward with pleasure to the Presidential election and an end to wall-to-wall lobbying and advertising.