In the streets of West Berlin, spies slip between shadows. Soldiers patrol barricades and

refugees from the city's Soviet-controlled east seek shelter.

It's November 1958, and this tiny oasis of capitalism is encircled by communist

East Germany. The Soviets want it, and no one knows how far they will go to get it.

But tonight, there's a new capitalist beacon shining bright. The Berlin Hilton, a 13-story

upscale hotel with nearly 350 rooms. And in its ballroom, the founder of Hilton

Hotels is throwing an opening party for ambassadors, movie stars, and other VIPs.

That man is Conrad Hilton, the world's number one hotelier. He's 70, tall, and sprightly,

and loves the limelight. The Berlin Hilton is his 34th hotel. But this one's about

more than profit. For Conrad and the US State Department, it tells Moscow that the West

is here to stay, and only a Hilton has the cashier to do that. A smile spreads on Conrad's

hand face as he leads his assistant onto the dance floor. The guests cheer as they dance

the Barcelona. It's a slow, unhurried dance, part waltz, part square dance, and he does

it every time he opens a new hotel. But behind the scenes, every second counts. In the staff

only corridor leading to the ballroom, the party organizer barks orders at the kitchen

via a radio headset. I need salads in 15. The organizer turns and scowls as he spots

a man using a chain to lead a muscled brown bear towards him. It's about time you're on

any moment. Back in the ballroom, Conrad's dance is done, and he's now addressing his guests.

Thank you all for being here for this historic moment. You know, some said we shouldn't open

a hotel in Berlin because of Russia's threats, but Hilton hotels are not built where there's

no future for them. Hotels support peace. If you get to know your neighbor, you're less likely

to fight with him. Our hotels make getting to know our neighbors easier and more comfortable.

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