This has been a year of extremes. It began with the sad spectacle of the U.S. president's sexual escapades and verbal gymnastics exposed to international ridicule, and draws to a close under the shadow of millennial terrorism and computer-induced chaos. There were long-anticipated moments of peace, and equally depressing outbreaks of war. In short, it has been a year much like any other -- only more so.

The sight of U.S. President Bill Clinton humiliated on videotape for all-too-human foibles -- and appallingly poor judgment -- is likely to be the single most enduring image of the year. The impeachment trial of the president, and its aftermath, has reminded the world that the United States, the most powerful nation in history, continues to move according to its own, often inscrutable, rhythms.

Remarkably, Mr. Clinton did not give up, and the world may be better for that. The continuing progress in Middle East peace talks and the breakthrough between Israel and Syria owes much to his efforts. Much credit also should be given to Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, who was elected to office this spring after promising his people to resume the peace drive inaugurated by his mentor, Yitzhak Rabin, who was assassinated by a Jewish zealot. Mr. Barak will have to work even harder now that he has lost the counsel of Jordan's King Hussein and Morocco's King Hassan, two brave leaders committed to reconciliation in the region who died this year.