Thrilling events: Berlin - South Africa - Moscow

When Boris Yeltsin died April 23, 2007 his obituary on the BBC website began:

• "Boris Yeltsin will be indelibly linked to the creation of democracy in Russia. By facing down the tanks outside the Russian Parliament, he showed that popular opinion could conquer authoritarianism."

The occasion of his death reminded me of a few truly wonderful moments associated with freedom and overcoming adversity. Here's three of my choices:

1989: Fall of the Berlin Wall
To many people, me included, the disintegration of the USSR and the fall of the Berlin Wall was something we did not think we would see in our lifetime. Watching the television coverage on Nov. 11-12, 1989 was truly thrilling.

• Here's a personal account by Andreas Ramos, who was there.
• On this BBC page, click on the link on the right: "Watch Newsnight's coverage of the fall of the Berlin wall"

1990: Nelson Mandela's release
Nelson Mandela's release from Victor-Verster Prison in South Africa after 27 years was something no one could have predicted a few years earlier. And no one could see him walk down that road without grinning from ear to ear and shedding a tear.

2003: McCartney Concert in Red Square
Another not-to-be-missed event was the 2003 Paul McCartney concert in Red Square, especially when he played "Back in the USSR". The look on the face of the Russians, many of whom were crying, was sheer joy. And it can be relived again and again if you get the Live in Red Square DVD.

If you have experienced similar emotional impacts with other world events, let me know by posting a comment.