YES WE DID!!!!!

Historic!

Yes we certainly did. A great day for America

Congrats media! Your candidate won!

Excuse me while I go hide my wallet..

I wonder if you had a set of photos ready if the other guy won

Once more, American moves forward. #28 puts me at ease.

Amazing. The magnitude of this election is well-reflected in these photos and makes me more excited for his leadership.

Thanks as always Big Picture.

An excellent moment, congratulations to all Americans.

#13 CAN I HAZ SANDWICH?

We have a great undertaking ahead of us now. But he's the right man for the job.

#10 is a clear travelling violation.

Utterly Fantastic and Amazing shots!

brought tears to my eyes again! these are great!

Representative of a new generation of hope for our country. Stunning images as usual.

Congratulations american people from Catalonia, Europe!
You did it, and we are so proud of you!

What other guy?

Let the campaign promise backpedaling begin.

Guess it's time to start polishing up on "Oh Canada" eh?

Beautiful shots, very very profesional photography!
We're are right behind you Mr. President!

[Speechless]

awesome. to paraphrase will smith... he makes this look good. #3. #9. #20.
and great link to callie shell too.

more people from CATALONIA!

YES, YOU DID IT!

#3 is that a razor?!?!?!

Amazing pics...
Amazing day..
Amazing man...

Why does the last picture remind me of Che Guevara's Fist.....

Hey Zippy!

You guys are so bitter.

I can't wait to start receiving everyone else's hard earned money by doing nothing. Spread the wealth!!! I love it!

congratulations, americans!

A great day for not only United-Statians, but for the world.
Let's be prepared for real change.

PS.: Media was also on the other side. People elected the one they thought it would act best at the moment we are facing - that's called wisdom, not media brainwash.

Photo #18 is stunning. It's almost a beacon of light in a storm.

Fantastic pictures of an inspirational man. Historic.

Well done America for having chosen this amazing man!

This collections tells the story so well! May the next four years be as hopeful as the last 24 hours! Thanks for the work Alan.

Photalog

YES. WE. DID. IT.

Defending our Democracy, saving the Constitution.

America, after all, there is still hope for you...

@ Zippy..(#4):

This IS a free country...so feel free to emigrate - i guess America is way better off without you and narrow-minded, political die hard, permanently stuck in the past people like you..

We don't need those fake, phony patriots.

Finally some good news in this crazy world!

@#5, good question!

I love this pictures. I really have enjoyed all the campaign-related pictures from this go around, and if you do have a series for John McCain, bring em on!

It's amazing to me how people actually believe what FOX News tells them...

"I can't wait to start receiving everyone elses hard earned money by doing nothing. Spread the wealth!"... blows me away.

absolutely awe-inspiring. even if you don't like his politics, his ability to speak to a crowd and get their attention is amazing. i'm proud to have been involved

Great man, Great pictures ! Congrats from Munich.

Obama is just a man, wait a few weeks we'll hate him the same as Bush.

I have to say, amazing photography. However we should all get used to our wallets getting lighter because our taxes are fixing to skyrocket. It is a historic day for our country, a monumentally important day for our country, but the next four years have hard times written all over them

The numbers of cynical sour losers in comment blocks like these never fail to amaze me. So much useless hatred and numbing pessimism. How totally unamerican. One would think people actually followed the respectful and respectable example that John McCain gave with his concession speech, and the dignity, posture and optimism in the future that he displayed there.

Great pics, A great man and a great moment in American history. To those of you who are still not onboard, realize you are now in the official minority and in a democracy the minority does not rule and neither do their neo-conservative morals.

Amazing pics, especially #11.

I really hope the Obama presidency goes well, but I don't think it can ever live up to expectations. And Zippy's fears may not be unfounded, although hiding his wallet probably won't help. There is no way that Obama's tax plan could ever pay for all of his other policies, but that money does have to come from somewhere.

a great day for america!

To all racists, bitter losers, imperialists, mouth-breathers, scaredy cats, etc...
Canada is a beautiful country; I will miss you terribly and hope they actually let you in. P.S.: Don't let the door hit you on the way out

Those photos are amazing! I don't go to understand what it means to the Americans that Obama has done it, but if I had voted he would of got my vote.

history was made he will take us far

Amazing photos as always to illustrate this awesome turn of events!!!
Being a dem from an unfortunately red state I have heard all the 'he'll take my guns and money, he's a Christian hating Muslim, he's unpatriotic, his name rhymes with Osama' biggoted and uninformed nonsense that I can take. I am so glad that the campaign is over and excited about the next 4 years, when at the very least we'll have a leader who can pronounce multi-syllable words!!!

Yes We Can!
Yes We Did!
Yes We Will!

I hope it is for the best but I can't help feeling something is not right.

----------------
4.

Congrats media! Your candidate won!

Excuse me while I go hide my wallet..
Posted by Zippy_Slug November 5, 08 11:35 AM
----------------
Ha, four comments and the whiners enter the scene..

Hey zippy, if you actually believe (seriously) that the "The Media" (whovever/whatever that is... and does it include Fox?) favored Obama in a way which can correctly and absolutely be called "biased", you should check your grip on reality. The Republican campaign did not just poorly, honestly, it was abysmal.
McCain had a good chance in the beginning, but the nomination of Palin was a catastrophically bad move that finally ruined all efforts. And for the future - If you think a smear campaign can work - THINK again.

ps.

Hey, i know a place that's ideal for hiding your wallet: North Korea. As long as you don't question the regime over there your wallet and its contents are perfectly safe.
And I'm confident that they'll bid a warm welcome to a traitor coming from America.

More, please.

i was there last night a the celebration michigan ave was overloaded withe people no cars!!!

REJOICE! Today is a new day for America!
Brilliant photography. President-Elect Obama is a truly historic figure.

Fabulous. Absolutely fabulous.

U.S. just re-invented themselves again. And you were on the verge of a failure.

Hey #42 - getting 52% of the popular vote is hardly a mandate, especially given the wounded Republican brand. One out of two Americans did not want this man for president. Get used to the grousing.

Amen!

42.
The numbers of cynical sour losers in comment blocks like these never fail to amaze me. So much useless hatred and numbing pessimism. How totally unamerican. One would think people actually followed the respectful and respectable example that John McCain gave with his concession speech, and the dignity, posture and optimism in the future that he displayed there.

Thank you for describing exactly how I feel; far too happy to have any negative opinions. I am filled with hope.

Unfortunately, the majority of voters were young and inexperienced.
I did a small random poll of college aged employees and was amazed at the answers.
1) Q: How long has Obama been a Senator?
A: I don't know, twenty years? (one out of 25 got it right.
2) Q:What State is he Senator of?
A: Don't know, don't care.
3) Q: What has he accomplished as Senaotr?
A: Not sur
4) Q: What qaulifications does he have to run the US.
A: McCain is too old.
Amazing isn't it?
Also, as I read through some blogs and whatnot, there is a video blog I saw where people submit personal video clips and such.... One showed a woman in N Carolina that did not vote in the Preliminaries and was not allowed to vote in the Election... There was a Lawyer there put there by the Obama Campain that allowed her to fill out an affidavit and she was then allowed to vote... this is not right!
If you do not follow the rules of the Elelction, you should not be allowed to vote.... SIMPLE!

Running for President and being President are two different things. Let's see if he can handle the pressure of the job. I voted McCain but since it didn't happen, I hope Obama can do it.

I wonder if you prepared something this nice for McCain in case he would have one.

More of a great photos of Obama: http://digitaljournalist.org/issue0810/callie-bp.html
Also, I wonder how there is no picture of Obama in Berlin

Pic #6: Ceiling President is watching you equivocate

Pic #20: "You know what the difference is between you and me? I make this look good."

Great Pictures, Congratulations from Kyiv, Ukraine

To anonymous
Regarding the racists, etc.. We don't want them in Canada. Send them where they belong... to hell. We are a proud nation, and do not need that in our country. Although I am Canadian, I am happy for President-elect Mr. Obama, we share your time for change message, you are not only carrying the hopes and dreams of your fellow Americans, but also the hopes and dreams of people around the globe, desiring a better world. We wish you all the best and success.

Why are you guys hating on the "haters"? They are really just expressing they discontent, and in a realistic and un-hyperbolic fashion. They aren't the ones spouting stupid rumors about Obama, they're questioning how Obama is going to be able to live up to all of his promises.

And, of course, today comes out several reports on, "How IS Obama going to live up to his promises?" I mean, we have no money. Not only do we have no money, but the budget is making us lose MORE money. Of course, this would be the same with McCain or Obama. Neither is for real change in how we run this country.

In my opinion, the only way to go from here is to stop promising so much to the American people and the rest of the world, and start scaling back our government. Go back to making every individual's happiness their own responsibility, not the government's.

On a specific note, it has been shown that socializing medicine makes things worse for a large majority. People start going to doctors and specialists for minor problems, the tax burden rises, and people end up waiting a long time for care they need, waiting behind people who are getting care they want. Of course, it makes things better for people who couldn't previously afford medical insurance, but people can't be refused medical care to begin with (in emergencies--if you need a new heart, they aren't obligated to get you one over somebody who can afford the cost).

Personal responsibility. It's the only way, as far as I'm concerned.

63.I wonder if you prepared something this nice for McCain in case he would have one.

ONE WHAT ? ?

THE BIG PICTURE ALWAYS DOES AN AMAZING JOB AT DEPICTING THE BEAUTY IN THINGS AND THEY HAVE DONE SUCH A GREAT JOB AGAIN.. ALMOST BRINGS ME TO TEARS.. I'VE NEVER BEEN SO PROUD AND I'M NOT EVEN AN AFRICAN AMERICAN.. IM JUST AN AMERICAN.. TO THE NEGATIVE PEOPLE POSTING COMMENTS.. PLEASE DON'T SOUR SOMETHING SO BEAUTIFUL AS THESE PICTURES WITH YOUR IGNORANT COMMENTS.. YOUR ENTITLED TO YOUR OPINION BUT GO BLOG ABOUT IT SOMEWHERE ELSE.

Yesterday, when I cast my vote in Texas, I was asked if I wanted a paper or eletronic ballot. I wondered which one had less chance of being tampered with. (Anyone read Kennedy"s article in Rolling Stone?) I knew Obama probably wouldn't carry Texas, but I feared for the ballots in the states he would carry. His overwhelming victory shows that this country is behind him in numbers too great to hide. I agree, REJOICE!

Don't worry all you non-Obama supporters, he won't be able to do too much damage in four years, then we can get this country back on track once the people remember what it was like to have Democrats in the White House again!
Remember those Clinton years? Yikes!

Now shut up and DO IT!

America be careful what you ask for because now you've got it. Do you honestly think he going to make any significant differance? The only change is - he was elected, thats not enough.

I´m glad, that Obama made it. He is the symbol of change and i am proud to have seen his speech in Berlin. Let´s hope that he doesn´t disappoint..

Cheers
Chan from TheJunction

I didn't vote for the guy, but these pictures are amazing and they clearly illustrate the excitement his campaign generated. Now that he is President-Elect, he will have his chance to show that yes, in fact, he can. For the sake of the United States and the world, I pray he is all he seems. Unbelievable pics!

As a white male over 50 I was an undecided voter until October, 2008 when I saw George Bush cower in the White House in the face of an economic meltdown. My mind was made up. Obama is the right man for this time in history.

I am proud to have voted for him!

As a white male over 50 I was an undecided voter until October, 2008 when I saw George Bush cower in the White House in the face of an economic meltdown. My mind was made up. Obama is the right man for this time in history.

I am proud to have voted for him!

I would have voted Ron Paul!

IT"S A NEW DAY ACROSS THE WORLD!!!!

It's true that he looks like he's posing for a coin most of the time. :)

Wow. What a fantastic photo essay! Well done.

Whodathunk it would really happen.

Yay.

BTW, Duhon is Knick this season, not a Bull

Nice post, Danny!

I'm frankly not surprised to see that the country had so many who calmly and patiently objected to the way we were going during the Bush years, but now it's backwards and racist to express any concerns over the way Obama will govern. For years the left was accused of being unpatriotic for merely questioning the government, and now those accusations are already being thrown back at the right. (I'm looking at you, "ReadyForTheFuture.") I don't see any real change having happened. It's just a different team winning. But I'd love to be proved wrong -- only by Obama's actions, not words.

THANK YOU AMERICA!

Beautiful shots. The only negative was that dress Michele wore to the celebration speech last night. Maybe it was a stab at Palin's profligate spending but man, it really was an ugly dress. I know it doesn't matter. Otherwise a great night

LJ: "Remember those Clinton years?"
Can we remember them? Yes we can. They were the good times between the two Bushes. We remembered them well on our way to the polls yesterday.

#70-I'm with you. It is a great time to be an American.

Great pictures. this was my first time seeing these pictures. I must say it make's me proud to be an American.

congratulations comrades

simply amazing!

What a wonderful series of pictures! All of Europe is celebrating with you!
Alter a long night of waiting ,
from Germany,
Caja Thimm

This is great history and I couldn't be more proud of our new president!!! We are going to see great things from him. Congratulaions!!

@LJ: you mean economic prosperity for all? Constitutional rights respected? No unjustified wars being waged? Natural disasters being handled competently? Yeah, we remember, that's why we elected Barack Obama!

I am proud to be an American today. I have great expectations, as does much of the world, of this dynamic and capable leader.

Catalonia is spain guys!!
Congratulations USA!!

love the fist bump with the little kid

I awoke this morning to a new America and new hope.

It should have been Hillary. He was in the right place at the right time and speaks utter rubbish.

Wonderful collection of great images.

It is a historic moment.

And for the right wing guy wanting to move to Canada, sure com'on up,
We've already legalized gay marriage, Stopped the death penalty, pay heavier taxes to support universal free health care and have way stricter gun laws.

John McCain is a great guy too, Bush wasn't.

I am confused, doesn't the Republican party stand against things like Nationalizing banks, expanding government, giving the government broad new powers, borrowing all the money for 2 wars, and increasing spending way beyond the abilities of the tax payers to pay?

I would say it is a testament to the quality of John McCain to have kept the race as close as he did.

Great pictures, as usual.

As for all the bitter McCain supporters here, I don't blame them. I was more bitter 4 years ago when those people reelected Bush. I predicted how this country is heading straight down the crapper.

The difference is, 4 years later, I now know I was right. 4 years from now, the bitter McCain supporters will know if they were right.

Here's an honest question, Obama supporters:

What does Obama plan to do now, and how is he going to manage to do it? Especially consider that, as a country, we have no money and continue to dig ourselves further into debt by stretching our promises further and further.

This is not meant to be snarky. I really want to know how he is going to accomplish all of the things that candidates have been promising for years and not delivering.

I'm still keeping my guns.

Excellent photos, Well done USA from Ireland.

#28

FIST BUMP FOR THE WIN!

Photo Guy,

"It is a historic moment."

Didn't you pay attention at all last night? Everybody was saying it... It's AN historic moment. Sheesh! :-P

"I am confused, doesn't the Republican party stand against things like Nationalizing banks, expanding government, giving the government broad new powers, borrowing all the money for 2 wars, and increasing spending way beyond the abilities of the tax payers to pay?"

You must be confusing the Republican party with conservatives. They have a new name for them, which is the "neo-conservatives". It means "not conservative at all". lol.

Why do all these people who dislike Obama seem to think that Canada is the great Republican refuge to the north? Have they even taken a look at our politics in general? LOL.

gary give it a rest, the better man won.

He's pointing out some dirty lens dust in #31.

Anyone else spot that photog comedy right away?

If I have policy disagreements with Obama, does that make me a racist?

I love you Obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great pictures ... I'm so proud of my country, again. If we'd elected another backward thinking, me me me Republican, I'd have seriously made my plans for Canada.

The real America has spoken. If you don't like the result, go ahead and move on out. And if you're a true racist, have the balls to publickly and proudly admit it - and THEN move out of my country.

All you people who believe Obama's message "hope, change, redistribution of wealth, social reform"........boy, did you get hood-winked. Go ahead and celebrate now.....we'll see what "Mr. Change" can / can't do. I'm not holding my breath.

...and another thing...it's no wonder Obama can't salute the flag....his mentor was a communist! How American is that?! Enjoy the change.

A SOLID HOUSE DIVIDED CANNOT STAN.

When I think of the goodness of mankind and all that we must do to make this a better world, my soul cries out to all. The question I asked, can we all get along? This was an historic event and yet we have a division. For the one that wanted to see that vision change, they got on board. This election was not about a party it was about human-beings trying to survive and their needs being met. It was about who could hear their voices in such chaotic times, It was about allowing their children to learn about history for some of the disenfranchise groups of people. It was about learning about the society ills that told some, you are not worthy to be praised. Ronny King, a Black man who suffered a massive beating from some police officers some years ago, said, “Why can’t we all just get along” Looking at this big win for Obamba certainly says we just cannot do just that as American people. Yet, as we look around the world on this great historic event, from some other countries they showed their love for Obamba. They too got on board because they had a vision. And yet, we as Americans cannot grip that meaning. For the ones who didn’t get on board continued to see what is for them within their own inner circle that contribute to their ideology. We all know that a house divided cannot stand. It cannot stand because it comes with its foundation to hold up the structure. That is an analogy of what we must do to keep our foundation study. Obamba can not wave a magic portion and get us free of all of this mess incur before his time. That is why this house cannot be divided.

Its must be a process of tearing down before building up. We must help to dig through the rumble and find the right solution that will give us a solid foundation to hold on to. Where there is hope, it is prosperity, where there is prosperity everyone will prosper only when the house is not divided.

Obama, You stood the test and you ran the race with pride. I think God for you and I know your running for the big job is well deserved.

I am mad Obama is president. Now my parents will have to pay higher taxes. Whoo. GO JOHN MCCAIN! I

Congratulations America on the appointment of (hopefully great) president!

Democracy Rocks!

I remember when President Kennedy was elected. I never thought that there would be a feeling like that again in this country, but I was wrong. These pictures capture the excitement and the hope.

BRENDA SERY,

I'm not sure what your point is. Your spelling and grammar is terrible, and the only point I hear is that "a house divided cannot stand". Can you be more specific? Are you saying we all have to agree before we can make progress as a nation? That is not true on broad levels, so at what level to you see this as true?

Sad to watch him get grayer-haired over the summer...Needs to spend more on haircuts.

@Brenda Sery: My house cannot STAN either. :)

This photography is awe-inspiring. Makes me want to grab my camera and find ways to engage my friends and family to create portraits like these. I am looking forward to the prospect of a president that I am not embarrassed by. I hope (get it?) that Barack lives up to his campaign's claims.

To anyone interested in being realistic in regards to the policies about to be implemented - sorry in advance!

Conglatulations!!!

Puerto Rico for Obama

At 61,

You don't have to vote in the primaries to be able to vote in the general election. if you're going to criticize the election process, get some general knowledge of civics first.

#13 is a great portrait. Love the reflective surface.

#16 is great evidence that Obama is human and has a life outside of politics. He and his wife appear to be the most affectionate couple on the campaign trail and elsewhere. It's comforting to see that side of Obama and his family.

#33-35 makes me feel proud to be an American. I can feel the tears welling up in my eyes.

Thank you for all the great work Mr. Taylor!

So beautiful!

THANK YOU AMERICA

Yes! Yes! Yes!! The pics are a beautiful representation of the spirit we are feeling. The blind dummies on here can't get us down -- Obama is our president. We WANT him as our president. Thank God that the evil moron Bush will be gone soon! Welcome President Barack Obama! We support you!!!!!!!!!!

Great pictures as always.

I wonder how these comments will look in 4 years!

#61-- you sampled a handful of college-aged employees-- this says nothing about the *majority* of voters... you clearly are *not* a statistician and probably *are* an idiot. Take an elementary course on experimental design and randomized statistics.

Sure there's plenty to be done after the election-- but why is it wrong to be hopeful in the midst of euphoria? It certainly isn't wrong to be skeptical, either-- I believe Obama has great ideas, but I'm certainly not about to believe they're all going to get through Congress without a hitch! Grow up, the future's not waiting around.

The new generation of took America back from the hands of the old generation. The USA are back.

If you are not moved by seeing both Colin Powell and Wesley Clark get choked up then I do not know how you can call yourself an American?
52% in this day and age is a mandate, however, the other 48% need to make good on their battlecry "Country First"

Also-- these photos are a glorious spread of a glorious man in action.

Idealistic or not, I'm admittedly still caught in the euphoria.

We won, America.

Thank you Americans! Thank you for all of us around the world.

Merci.....!! Et bravo d'avoir osé......
You dared it.....Bravo...and thank you !!

This is a glorious day, more importantly a realization of a dream come true. Obama 2008. For hundreds of years the broken promise of 40 acres and a mule has haunted my people. November 4th, 2008 we got 50 states and the White House, imagine that........The time is right here... right now ....lets go forward never forgetting from whence we came. One love to all

Obama 349
McCain 173

Nothing else to say, so Stop Whining!

A once in a lifetime experience.......Congratulations!!!!

After eight long years, it finally feels like America again. Thank you, America!

Congratulations America !!

This is the kind of values and democracy lessons you can show to the rest of the world and be assured than the rest of the world will be willing to follow this kind of leadership. !!

Europe is proud of you, congratulation, you did it!

McCain was in a P.O.W. camp longer than Obama has been in the Senate...We shall see if inexperience pays off.

I love this guy he is amazing everyone is critizing if you can deal with Bush for eight years full of wars and high gas prices then give Barack a Chance. And has anyone found Bin Laden yet speaking of Bush????? No but we found Sadim Hussien Correct???? Did he blow up the twin towers? No. But Where is Bin Laden???? Cashing checks with Bush who family has ties with Bin Family. Sick World. Ignorant and all

TheDayWeWon,

"Sure there's plenty to be done after the election-- but why is it wrong to be hopeful in the midst of euphoria?"

It's not wrong, just naive.

We are now.
We are indeed.
We are finally,
A More Perfect Union.

Dymond,

"I love this guy he is amazing everyone is critizing if you can deal with Bush for eight years full of wars and high gas prices then give Barack a Chance."

Oh, I will. But you have to understand, there are more choices than Barack and McCain, Democrat and Republican, Donkey and Elephant. I'm critical of both of them (and all other parties, too). Trust me, it's possible to not like Barack AND Bush. Open your mind. Include third parties in your thoughts.

(In Yoda's voice) Change, we need. Yes, Mmmmm.

Our Prayers have been answered! I feel a new hope! Congrats!

Given the mess left to us by the departing administration, we'll need all hands on deck for the next for years, but I am proud to throw my lot in with President Elect Obama!! I invite all who wonder what he'll be able to do to remember the immortal words of John F. Kennedy : "[a]sk not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country"! This is not a time to be Democrat or Republican; it is a time to be an American and all pull our weight. Let's put a lid on the trash-talking; call on the "better angels of our nature", to quote another great man from Illinois; and give this man a chance. God Bless you Mr. President Elect and keep you and your beautiful family safe from harm.

Martin Luther King dream came true. Best wishes. Lots of love St.lucian love

Absolutely amazing!

Very Beautiful photos!
Let's all do what we can to bring ALL of our dreams come true!
Let's work together because this election is about us!
Thank you so much young voters! It's a bright new dawn!!!

We should be very grateful that God has given us such
gifted person to help us get through the next 4 years in the USA.
All our prayers, positive thoughts go to Obama, he will surely need them.
We have been blessed with this man..
Cyndy

Beautiful pictures. Thank you.

Regardless of what anyone thinks, last night... we made history.

The pacing of these photographs are brilliant. Great juxtapositions.

#58 Seeing how no President has won over 50% of the popular vote since Regan, and Obama won 10 formerly Republican states, and you have to consider the gains Democrats made in both the House and the Senate. I think that you have no choice but to concede that PRESIDENT OBAMA indeed has a mandate.

Congratulations all american people!
It was a beautiful party.

I saw some guys using t-shirts with Obama figure today in Rio's streets. Obama is great.

God bless you.

Ya know, I used to doubt people online who said that there are people out there who think of Obama as some sort of Messiah. Seeing all of the empty praise for Obama's "hope" and "change" on this page makes me not so sure. Maybe you guys should check out the book "The Cult of the Presidency".

To all those that voted against President-Elect Obama,

Please give him a chance before you tear him down. Lets see what kind of a Cabinet he appoints, will he keep Petraus at Cent-Com? Who will be Chairman of Joint Chiefs and who will run Treasury and Fed? If he appoints people you have legitmate grievances with, debate your points. If he proposes policies you disagree with, debate your points. If you points are strong and legitamte, then you will not have a problem replacing him in 4 years. But please don't tear him down simply because he is a Democrat, or an African American. You lost, your ideas lost, your candidate lost. Give the winning candidate the chance to prove himself to you. That is all he asks.

I'm happy for you all. America deserves this man!
Greetz from Amsterdam, Holland

Hey Denny, and anyone else who questions health care reform...

Have you ever lived outside this country? Have you directly experienced medical care in other countries? Can you make an educated comparison? Or are you just repeated things you've heard but know nothing about?

Well, I've lived in Japan, England, Germany, and the USA. I've been a part of all of their health care systems. And while each system has issues, and nothing is perfect, we in America are lagging behind. Do some research. Look at life expectancy, cancer raets, infant mortality rates. Seriously.

My faith is restored in Americans!

After the debacle of letting Dubya "win" in 2000, when he clearly didn't, after refusing to sign up to the Kyoto Protocol, after blindly going to war with Iraq (Saddam Hussein NEVER had anything to do with 911 or Al-Quaeda). After hearing about Creationist Retarded Education in US schools, after reading "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee" by Dee Brown, after serving with American Forces in Kosovo and Croatia, after the UK losing 18 servicemen to US "Friendly Fire" in 1991 and a Royal Air Force Tornado fighter plane was shot down by American "airfield defence" troops in Kuwait 2003.
...You've done something very, very good for the world - We all rejoice with you!

I think the better man won. I never thought i would live to see this day in my lifetime. It is a blessing that this man who is so humble and ready to serve the American people is where he is today. May God bless the Obama family. For all those with negative comments the country has spoken..... suck it up and deal with it!

Chris,

"Have you ever lived outside this country?"

No.

"Have you directly experienced medical care in other countries?"

No.

"Can you make an educated comparison?"

Define "educated"? It has been shown as economically infeasable to give health care to everybody. And there are plenty of realistic accounts and economic examples of what happens in such a system.

"Or are you just repeated things you've heard but know nothing about?"

Why do people always assume this?

Honestly... lets pause for a second here.

The reason why people choose different options is because they have different values. Assuming everybody gets the same, accurate information, everybody will STILL choose different options because they value something else more. They have different priorities.

So, assuming I have accurate economic examples, you really can't accuse me of making a bad call on something. It's a value judgement.

Oh, and I'm not at ALL against health care reform. I'm just against socializing medicine so that everybody is on the same level, and everybody bears the burden.

What is it that you propose, then? What is it that you like and dislike about Obama's plan? I'll assume you have your own priorities that are different than mine, and not assume that you are some idiot spouting off what somebody told you. I'd appreciate the same courtesy.

I'm a libertarian atheist. I did not vote for Obama or McCain.

But damned, just the images, the idea that this man is our President...

Brings me tears of joy and hope for humankind!

Congratulations America! A landslide victory for the voice of reason. 93% of the World thinks you've chosen wisely - and 6+ billion people can't be wrong. And RESCETP1 for McCain, too, for his highly dignified concession speech. Another remarkable American. Peace from NL, Europe.

Beautiful Pictures!

And to all the negative comments being left in this blog about President Obama...
THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT NOW!
I just get my joy knowing that!! Oh how we shall sing and dance for the CHANGE!!

YES WE CAN!!!

America is now really a GREAT country. By choosing a afro-american as your pressident, you all the americans have prooved for whole world that you have something great in your 'undrawer'. You are best! Thank you America. God bless you and your country. The real american dream is now possible for all of you. I am so glad for you and your best choice. Long live America!

Excellant photos. Obama is a Living God, so hansome and charismatic he is!

(Sorry for my poor english).

Great photos!

In fact, Chris, I think the problem with this country's health system is just like what happened when the hurricanes hit. Insurance is seen is an imperative and a right. People all over have insurance for their cars, their motorcycles, their homes, and now they can get it for their pets and whatever they want. No big deal--if they can afford it. Whether the insurance companies don't charge enough to cover their costs on their own or the government mandates it, it should be seen as a private matter. Insurance companies should be guarded just like banks should be (except they haven't), such that insurance companies can't promise what they can't deliver, just like banks.

So when the hurricanes hit, and the insurance companies couldn't cover the disaster, who picks up the tab? The US government. Hooray for us! And why should we the people pay for people lived along a coast that is frequently hit by hurricanes when they get damaged? Sounds like a personal problem to me, and I don't want to pay for it.

Essentially, being able to afford insurance, just like many many other things, is not a right, it's a privilege. And it should be kept that way.

If Obama can get us back to where this country was 8 years ago, I'll shake his hand and say 'a job well done'. Anything more will be icing on the cake...

Shep (#159), well stated! It is time this country came together and work our way out of the mess we find ourselves in. I am very hopeful that we can close the partisan gap and actually do some good across this country. But we have to get past the doom and gloom prophecies, and the smears that divide us. I think we can safely say that President-elect Obama is not a terrorist, or the anti-christ, or whatever other tactics came out of the smear campaign. But he is the leader of our country, and if the McCain supporters really intent on putting "Country First" then that means doing everything we all can to help move this country forward.
And the comment about it being naive to believe in hope, that is the most depressing comment I've seen hear. Why would you ever criticize someone for having hope? Would you ever tell your child it was dumb to hope or dream for something, no matter the size?

hermosas fotos

Congratulations Americans, we really hope Obama means a real change not only for the States but also for the rest of the world.

Steven,

"93% of the World thinks you've chosen wisely - and 6+ billion people can't be wrong."

Argumentum ad populum would like a word with you.

Champs d'Ormes from Paris,

"Obama is a Living God..."

Ay ay ay! I'm glad I didn't make any material bets about people thinking Obama is a god.

Congratulations Americans, we really hope Obama means a real change not only for the States but also for the rest of the world.

A great day in history to see the first African American to be appointed President. He's intelligent, articulate, educated, charismatic , and yes seems to have a genuine caring for all people. Just as important though, to see the thousands of voters turn out was so amazing and energizing, especially for our youth. They are our future! Congrats for an outstanding campaign..Yes he will!
Karen Smith, Saint Louis-Missouri

Awesome photo essay.

McCain folks.. stop being so shrill, snarky, sulky, and lame. Or move to Alaska and live in Palin's utopia. Either way, STFU and get out of the way.

o melhor
só podia ser assim
abraço berna_dd

proud and ready to work for change,

"And the comment about it being naive to believe in hope, that is the most depressing comment I've seen hear."

I'd appreciate not being misread and misquoted, this is what I said:

"TheDayWeWon,

"Sure there's plenty to be done after the election-- but why is it wrong to be hopeful in the midst of euphoria?"

It's not wrong, just naive."

It IS naive to be hopeful in the midst of euphoria, because that's typically when you should be most vigilant. One story comes to mind of a girl that was raped at a party and her friend thought he remembered her asking for help but he was too drunk to remember. When he heard that she was in fact raped that night, he vowed never to drink again. I don't agree with his conclusion, but I can understand his resolve and why he decided to make that vow.

So, when you are feeling really good, you should to be more vigilant because you are naturally letting your guard down. You don't have to, but it certainly is a more efficient survival technique.

Congratulations America!

Frank L, Boston, MA,

"McCain folks.. stop being so shrill, snarky, sulky, and lame. Or move to Alaska and live in Palin's utopia. Either way, STFU and get out of the way."

I'm not a "McCain folk" so you're probably not talking to me, but would you want to address my thoughtful posts and questions above?

A great day for a great country.

Such an opportunity to take a step in a new direction, for ALL of us. Not just the top five percent.

Get with it, citizens. Believe!

President Obama!

Beautiful photo's (next best thing to being there) Praise God from whom all Blessing Flow !!! History was made on 4th November 2008; and I thank God
for being here.

I know this isn't relevant to his job as president, but what a beautiful family they are! It's been a very long time since we had such a beautiful family representing this country, probably not since Kennedy.

I just glad to be round ..and proud to be black.

Photo 30 Appears to be a composite, I'm surprised it made it in.

A great day for American and the rest of the world but I wish American will learn to lose their idea of sharing wealth with the poorest as a great evil. The greed espoused by the right has nothing in common with the values of liberty, freedom and democracy. As for socialism, it is not the same as being a child rapist. Jesus Christ was the great socialist the world has ever seen. Republicans I hope that one day you will learn to become better people and stop believing in the right of very rich and amoral white men to oppress and exploit others and call that christianity and patriotism.

Are you the same guy that takes the other pictures too?

I hate Obama but I love your pictures!

Awesome Photos!

Last night was one of the most amazing nights of my life. I have never felt more inspired or more alive or more hopeful about America. I'm so tired of feeling ashamed and this election just ushered in my key to finally feeling proud. Go America and go Americans!

Okay, to all the pissed off, bitter and otherwise assinine comments I have had the privilege to read today (after all free speech is your inalienable right) I have a few very simple questions:
Is your objection to Barack Obama based on your disagreement with his leadership abilities? Because all know what a stellar job "W" has done (yes its sarcasm)
The idea of anyone not caucasian in the White House? Ye Gods~ no other race has the level of astuteness or intelligence because you are "the chosen" ?? I welcome the comments rude, crude and personalized though they may be (I have the utmost faith some of you will not disappoint)
What ?? because at the end of the day ~ here is the one part everyone keeps missing~ He won, the people of all ethnicities got out and voted.

November 5, 2008- like Christmas morning x 1,000,000!!!

Danny should have ran with McCain, he's got a lot to say!

A sad day in America.

Picture number 12 seems to reflect the conflicting emotions and the momentous weight of this historic day. The uncertainty of change (lady on the left), the joy (lady on the right) and the hope for a better future (girl in the centre). A beautiful picture.

Sekrit Service

What's President Obama's Sekrit Service nick going to be?

What was Dubya's, for that matter - 'The Goat', 'Knucklehead' .. ?

As a Canadian, this was more existing than the last few times we've elected empty headed conservatives to dive our own country deeper into the hole, just like the US is emerging from the same hole. Whats sad is the amount of pathetic turds asking for free welfare, mortgages paid and all that crap Rove told you to say if Obama won. He has a huge job ahead of him and it seems a country half full of losers ready to burn the country to the ground to prove a point; that liberal thinking is wrong.

Well ladies I hope you FAIL, fail big, world leaders will want to work with him, will want to see him succeed and you will just come off as traitors to your own country and today I feel more of an American than you will ever deserve to be. Yelling from the top of your trailer home with a shotgun in your hand is not the American dream, today the world hopes for your country to resurrect itself from the sewer you have dragged it into.

And btw, this feature from Boston.com is BRILIANT and the person who came up with it should be well compensated

I am glad to see that the US has recovered a bit of common sense.

I see some major issues, the fact is that it will be quite difficult to pull forward some of those promisses, at least during his first legislation (that is if there are any). Not as much as for the raw economic issues, but for the corporate and economic interests. I feel quite sure that between the high elite of the US there are many guys that don't even whant to think about many of the things he talks about. Though it can sound like picked out of a movie, I just hope not to see an other JFK if he realy tries to pull forward his promisses in a serius way, hope not.

It is wonderful to be on the right side of history on this momentous day.

Obama has already made a tremendous positive impact on our nations attitude. He is clearly capable of accomplishing goals he sets out, after all, he is the first African American president elected and he did so by running a first class campaign.

I'm not so naive to think everything will be sunny meadows now but am absolutely thrilled to tears to have a Obama as our president and excited for a change in America's bogus reputation.

Excellent photo essay!

This is a pivotal moment in our nation's history and goes beyond the presidency bid. What many seem to forget is that Obama is half African American and half Caucasian. He truly represents a majority of the American people, and his win on Nov. 4 is a source of pride for not only African Americans but for Caucasians as well as we can finally demonstrate that we have all risen up, shed our differences, and united as a single people (possibly for the first time in our history!).

Eric

Ps. I love #20. What a bad ass!

When the Republicans were in power, I couldn't stomach listening to O'Reilly, Rush, Hannity, and the rest of them. Now that the gov't is back on track and in good hands, it's fun and funny to listen to the Republican talking heads bloviate!

Wow, okay, now that I see Michelle's dress up close, it is quite beautiful (not a fan of the overly casual-looking cardigan though...an elegant shrug might've been better). Her designer should have known that it was a bad choice for a dress to be seen on television and from a distance, though, because from a distance you can't see the subtle gradient that the red--black creates...it just looks like a big red blotch, which is why I thought it was ugly.

•You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
•You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
•You cannot help little men by tearing down big men.
•You cannot lift the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer.
•You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
•You cannot establish sound security on borrowed money.
•You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred.
•You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than you earn.
•You cannot build character and courage by destroying men's initiative and independence.
•And you cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they can and should do for themselves.
William J. H. Boetcker (1873 – 1962)

All I want to say is "Yes we can!"

I am so deeply proud of my country. As I watched the results last night with dear friends, I am not ashamed to say that tears ran down my cheeks. These photographs are most certainly "keepers." Thank you very much for posting them.

YES WE . . . DID.

I don't get it. What does everybody see in Obama besides empty "change" slogans and speeches? I'm not complaining that he won, because I thought McCain was a poor candidate and ran a terrible campaign. I also thought Bush spent recklessly during his tenure and let government grow out of control. But who thinks they really know Obama? Can anyone name one legislative accomplishment of his? What plan does he have that is going to take our country out of insolvency? This is "dumb as we want to be" politics. I'm hoping for the best, but expect business as usual in Washington DC.

Congratulations Obama to be the next President of the United States of America , surely he is capable of the post and duty . The world is watching him and the U.S , may he lead the nation for a bright and prosperous future .

To people who don't like obama. You have no other option than to give him a chance as your president. stop crying and get used to it..

congrats guys ,hope it goes well this time!

Parabens pelas fotos!
Parabens pela democracia, pela inovação e pelo presidente eleito.
Esperamos uma nova era um novo tempo.
As fotos nos remetem a filmes de ficção, espero que sejam reais como nossas
esperanças de um mundo melhor.
Parabens

I am an Indian presently on a visit to US on business and I must say I am extremely fortunate to be here in these great times. I have seen some fantastic politics, healthy debates, mind blowing commentary, and outstanding audiences.

Even though I am far removed from the realities of your politics I am truly proud for what you Americans have demonstrated in this election - you have truly shown what a great nation you are and the lofty dreams that any one of us can realise.

God Bless.

Ville Chamonix family for Obama.

WE STAY FLY
NO LIE
OBAMA KNOWS THIS

BALLIN!

great photos!

You' re the best choice ! keep going to realize promisses not only for USA but to the entire world !

These photos make me remember that when I was young back in the 60's I absolutely believed that someday a rock star would be president. After looking at these great photos don't you agree that he's now the world's biggest rock star? I didn't vote for Obama because I strongly feel government should do much less and he of course wants it to do more and more, but in my mind there was never any question that Obama would win. And I'm glad he has because he will lift everybody's spirits in a way the McCain could not have. Even if we end up with a swing further to the left than people expect, more American spirit will make up for it. I mean this very sincerely, he's our president, he's got the stage.... rock on.

What an awesome collection of pics. Pretty incredible!

As for the comments, I'm just in awe of how much bitterness there is in people.
Get over yourselves, people, the majority has spoken.
Maybe if you weren't so miserable and full of venom your lives would be happier.
Your own happiness does NOT depend on who's president, but of course some of you will never figure that out. If not for being perpetually miserable, you wouldn't know what else to be.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."
I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood. I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice. I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."

We have tonight shown the "better angels of our nature".

On Nov. 4 went to bed in one country and awoke on Nov. 5 in another.

I have never been prouder of my state (Ohio) or my country than I am today.

The person who was the #113 comment is a hater.
Why not put yourself out of your own misery?
The majority of the country has spoken buddy!
Better get used to it.
Yes WE DID!!!!
Dougee

Im speachless,Very glad to see that we now have a president who see the thangs that we see, and feel the Pain that we feel,Who sees the struggle that lies ahead of all of Us,that we must Defeat,,And we Will, God has our blessings!!!!!!!!

I envy America now than ever!

many people who can afford it are getting they're taxes raised. Why on earth should they get they're taxes lowered when they're the ones who can actually afford taxes. For one thing, i am getting my taxes cut and im glad. GOOOOO OBAMA!! Also, responding to comment... 113, "hoodwinked to change" what????? "mr. Change" we do need change in this country because.. well, do you like Bush? no? well i thought so because hardly anyone can like him after he and cheynee have messed up our country and our relationships with the world. But McCain is Bush all over again, and we cannot have that any longer.

also, "obama cant salute the flag because hes not an american?" where do you get your info. Of course he is an american, he was born here in america like any other american. anyway, these pictures were beutifull, and i am truly glad that such an intelligant and loving man will rule our country

These are absolutely incredible. Fantastic pictures.

Yes We Can!

This is absolutely my favorite blog. I knew it wouldn't disappoint today. I look at this blog through tears in my eyes, overwhelmed with excitement and hope for the first time in 8 years. Thank you so much.

Paul,

"Danny should have ran with McCain, he's got a lot to say!"

What's your point? Plus, I wouldn't have ran with him anyway. Yech... I don't think I need to explain. :-D

Beautiful images!

Congratulations from an Aussie.

Hope lives for the U.S.A. that we admire.

Engage! 8)

OUTSTANDING photographs. I'm very proud of my country right now....

Those were the longest eight years ever!!!

Happy "Ranching" GWB!!!!!!!

And Good "Hunting" to Dick Cheney!!!!!

Congrats to Obama and the USA!

damn! wana know how we africans really feel over here?

Americans talk to brother from another mother here in africa!

Seeing the young people outside the White House, cheering peacefully, almost moved me to tears. They came out, voted, and took the country back. It's their country now. I couldn't be prouder to be an American.

As another poster so wonderfully said, for the 48% "Country First" crowd, it's time to get with the program. Don't be bitter.

What lies beyond hope?

First off, I was honestly impressed with John McCain’s concession speech last night. If the man who gave that speech had been the man running for President, this election would have been a lot closer. The only point I have to contend with is his praise of Palin’, which is a perfunctory nicety, but shouldn’t she get back to Alaska to keep an eye on Russia now?

Obama’s speech will be heard around the world. But more importantly, it will be felt. The entire Nordeast bar I was in sat silent as he spoke. It will become a staple among high school speech students for decades to come for sure. But the physical impact those words had was immediate. I liked his nod our country’s great history even as he stood making it. But it was his recognition of the challenges ahead that I took to heart. Despite his oratory skills, this wasn’t a fantasy world he laid out, we need to get to work. All of us. Remove the demographics and pigeon-holes that we’ve been shoved in for the past two years. All of us.

For those of us, who aren’t in Congress or have massive amounts of wealth, what can we do? How do we turn those words into action? To be blunt, listening to Obama last night made me want to be a better person. There are traits in our new President I want to emulate, that I want to teach to my nephews: intelligence, inclusiveness, reasoning, unflappability, positivity, in allowing your roots to let you become one of the branches. It can come out in little ways. Use your turn signal. Look a stranger in the eye and smile. Don’t see a businessman, a black person, a wheelchair, a bum, see an American. You share that in common. Realize that everything isn’t a contest. Learn about someplace where you don’t live. Give up your seat to an older person. These sound simplistic and silly compared to the issues we face, but try them, they’re free. They won’t add to the national debt. They’re totally non-partisan. And when you multiply them by millions, it suddenly becomes an everyday reality. We begin to see what is good about this country.

And it generates hope. Hope that draws possibility within reach. Hope that will be turned into action and solutions. We’re America. We’re better than what we’ve shown each other and the world the last eight years. We’ve grown fat, lazy, apathetic, and whiny. No longer can we be number one by default. We have to earn it. Just like many generations in the past have.

Don’t let the echo of those words fade. Let them reverberate in your own lives years from now. Carry an ember of that fire you felt to warm your heart when things grow cold.

Yes, we can. But will we? That’s up to all of us. And I, for one, am ready to get to work.

I don't believe in God. But if there really exists a God let him bless America today!

Thank you/Obrigado!
Henrique, Porto - Portugal

Beutiful picz! how does it feel to be an american 2day ha?......

This is really a historical moment for human history and civilizatiion. All the world is watching with special attention what is going on in The USA. And probably in some special place Mr. Luther King is concentrated in this news........

The best set of pictures this blog has seen ... and I'm not just saying that 'cause I voted for him.

What a fantastic night Nov. 4th was. I'm still tearing up over it.

After the win here in Seattle, people poured into the streets in celebration. A street party lasted until 3 in the morning. Thousands of people hugging, screaming in joy, men and women crying, strangers giving each other high fives. Police just stood there and smiled. It was absolutely incredible. I have never felt so strongly for my country than I did last night.

Simply amazing.

Dear US neighbours,

The world is a better place today than it was a few days ago because of you. Thank you for choosing this man as your president. You've sent a clear message to the rest of the world: Americans believe in democracy and change.
All my respect to you.
Dan from Canada

"Essentially, being able to afford insurance, just like many many other things, is not a right, it's a privilege. And it should be kept that way."

I stopped reading comments after I read that. My jaw just dropped and my heart breaks to think there are people out there that think like this. I can only assume you've never given birth to a very sick baby with special needs, and then blown through your older child's college savings to pay for "your share" of the insurance costs. When my mentally retarted son grows up to be a man, his health and life have as much value as any privlieged CEO's. And if you think that's "not fair", then I pray you never have a sick child, or a loved one who gets cancer. You're just so awful to think that; the right to a healthy life should not be a "privilege".

this is the first time in a while that virtually everyone i know had some vested interest in what was going on... heck even people abroad!

college kids out in boston were having a good time too.

roadtrip to dc come inauguration day!

Honestly, I hate the P.O.W. arguments. What kind of political experience is that? None. Yes, maybe it shows your tough and stubborn and refuse to quit, but it does not mean you know how to run a country. McCain is a great man, but he just is not the man to run our country, especially right now His policies will continue this country down the dreadful path that Bush has led us down.

Yes, Obama may not have a lot of experience, but the fact that he was able to motivate and inspire so many people is a truly unique quality (one that McCain clearly does not have despite his storied past). Look at the numbers. The election was NOT close. Its not like McCain was cheated. He lost because Americans want change and McCain was not offereing that. Obama is a man that immediately demands your respect and attention. Not just from Americans, but the entire world. People of all nationalities sat and watched this election and are now rejoicing because they know the America they have grown to hate has new life. Its not realistic to think drastic change will come quickly. If you do, then you clearly do not understand how the government works. Maybe not in January, maybe not even in 2009, but down the road Obama will make great strides to take America in a new direction. Millions of Americans are motivated to turn things around because of the results of this election and that would never had happened with a McCain presidency. The most important thing now is for Obama to reach across the aisle, something he has been known to do, so I have no doubts it will happen. The past eight years have left our country a mess. People from both parties will agree with that. Obama is the only person in this election that stood out as having the promise and potential to change that. America has made its decision.

Lastly, anyone out there making idiotic comments like "Obama is gonna make me pay more taxes" is just plain selfish. If that's the first thing on your list of concerns then you clearly do not care about our country.

I would like to say how happy I am for President Barack Obama and also for our great country,its so nice to see the breakthrough of racism to be gone it our country and to see a man as special asPresident Obama to take the office as our leader,we have proven to the world that the United States of America has spoken and we want CHANGE.May God bless President Obama and his family and give him the strength to restore our country and set the standard fo world peace.Best of luck from Richie The~Ax From Portland ,Maine........WE DID IT AND SHOWED THR NATION,

Mexican Women know he's a BALLER!! lol x_x

America is America, republican president or democratic president. Some people act like it's only your America when your people are in charge. Beautiful pics.

Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Obama and the democratic party now have near total control of the senate ((off by 4 seats)) and total control of the house and now the Presidency. I state this now with hope that somehow things will get better.
1. Fix the economy
2. Finish the war.
3. Fix social security.
Good luck, and if you fail. I will be there to laugh, and laugh hard.

I'm Australian and watched yesterday's (our time) proceedings and resulting acceptance speech in awe. Congratulations America, you got it right this time, what an inspiring leader.

this is the change that America have been reading for and now we all Black and white people we make it happen.

The Pied Piper has finally arrived.!

Free everything for everybody!

Free at Last . Free at last.

Uhuh . . .

HOPE - CHANGE

I just HOPE I have some CHANGE left when this is all said and done

Did you check out the shades? And the dramatic shots in the rain? Damn, we have the coolest President in the world.

Why couldn't it have been Colin Powell? A much better black leader! THis guy will be the death of freedom to America as we know it.

I voted for McCain. The majority voted for Obama. Let us ALL unite and get behind this man and make our suffering country great once again. I pray for his success and his safety. I hope in four years that we can say that he was the best president in history.

http://richardcardona.com/2008/11/feeling-inspired.html
I made the illustration above this morning and wrote this last night:

What wonderful news for us and for the world!

WE HAVE A NEW PRESIDENT!

And not just another president, but one who can become a GREAT President.

One who will change the American people, and also inspire the world.

One who can actually give an intelligent and eloquent public speech, full of hope for this great country of ours and for a better world.

One who can unite a nation of different people, of different races, religions, ideals and economic levels.

Hope has just entered the American vocabulary again tonight, with no trace of cynicism.

I am so proud to be an American tonight. I am so proud of my new President.

I am proud to be American in this historic time of change and hope.

Love, Peace, and Hope, to you!

Now that the battle between the Republicrats and Democans is over, do yourself a favor - go back and look at Ron Paul's platform. Don't just go by memory from the smear stories you heard before the primaries. You want change? You *will not get it* with the new President-elect, nor would you have gotten it from the also-ran. Both parties are two sides of the same coin. More government, more spending, more "welfare to the world"... Yes, Senator Paul said he would bring the troops home --- from *every* foreign country, not just Iraq and Afghanistan. No, Doctor Paul did *not* say he would outlaw abortion, he would make it a State's issue. Read his platform, then summon the courage to take back our nation from the fatally flawed two-party system, and vote for *real change* in 2012.

I'm glad to be here....and white.

scott j, couldn't have said it any better myself.

i cried for a half-hour off and on when things went down last night. i sit here staring at these photos and the true final weight of them doesn't register with me yet. the words "barack obama, president-elect" are still like oil and water in my brain.

i doubted this could actually happen, you know. they lingered on through the primaries (especially when obama lost here in pennsylvania) and even up through the conventions, even when all the polls pointed to a decisive democratic victory and the moods of the respective campaigns told the story more clearly than hemingway could have. hope, it seems, is a fickle mistress; and doubt one that refuses to climb from beneath the covers for weeks. and just you think twice about asking either to cook you breakfast.

i am twenty-three years old. i came of age with the thunderous crash of tumbling buildings still ringing in my ears. the frustration of seeing the divisive close-mindedness i saw around me growing up echoed on television and on the radio cannot be described in anything short of the tears that i shed last night - the tears that i will always shed when i think about where i was at eleven p.m. on november 4th, 2008, when barack obama addressed the nation as a president-in-waiting and shattered the disparaging negativity of my youth.

by the way everyone else was crying, they could feel it, too.

everything is different, folks. no more excuses - let's get to work.

Beautiful photos of our President-Elect!
"Yes We Can" is an awesome motto to sum it up! :)

I listened and watched his acceptance speech. That's the face and expression of a man who truly believes in this country and knows he has a great task ahead of him.

Excellent photos, and I am extremely happy we have an awesome new president.

Congratulation for you, Obama!!!

and these are notes for Americans (taken from Romans 13)

Submission to the Authorities:
(1)Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (2)Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. (3)For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. (4)For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. (5)Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. (6)This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. (7)Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Re: comment #186 - "...and proud to be black." You're PROUD to be black? Why - is it something that you worked for, and finally achieved? It's like the people who say they're "proud" to be an American. Unless an immigrant decides to become an American citizen, and does it, it's not something to be "proud" of. I feel extremely, EXTREMELY, lucky to be an American. But I was born here, to American parents, so it's not as though it was something that I accomplished and so feel I have a right to be proud of. On the other hand - I'm very, very proud of what my fellow Americans and I did yesterday, in electing Mr. Obama to be our next president. I also love and appreciate all the wonderful comments here from people of different countries. And, by the way, these are some of the most fantastic pictures I’ve ever seen!

To the citizens of America, Thank you. As an Australian, I am elated and relieved at your choice of President. Your country over the last eight years has lost the respect and trust of many and I hope that with this change, comes renewed respect, hope and peace for not only America, but the world.

Obama-rama diorama

But serious, I am so so happy that my candidate won. To be honest, I still like John McCain even after all trhat due to some of his moderate stances, particularly Nuclear. Seriously, us Democrats still have to applaud McCain for trying his darndest.
/moderate democrat
// also black

To both side of the anger I say this: As an American I saw a very close race (I'm speaking of the popular vote). I don't understand when it became a bad thing to be successful in this country...financial or political. I always pray the day after the election, that the right choices are made for our country, and the world by the President of the United States of America. I voted for McCain/Palin. My side lost, but that doesn't mean that Obama is going to forget about us. You heard what he said "To all of you Americans who didn't vote for me...I hear you." I am not a sore loser, because I don't think anyone lost. I've seen alot of sore winners who, sometimes, quite literally spit in my face for having a McCain/Palin sign in my front yard. But that's okay. I think Obama will do an outstanding job. I think McCain would have done an outstanding job. However, I finally feel like Obama is going to make the decision to actually represent our country's values as a whole rather than picking sides of some bi-partisan issues and doing whatever they want. I hope the cahnge is the right kind of change and I hope that I still have a country to have hope in.l May we all unite for the betterment of America now and stop our bickering.

For everyone clamoring for socialized medicine, consider these facts:
In 2007 in the US, there were 113,250 family doctors. If we include interns, OB/GYN, pediatricians, psychiatrists and surgeons, the number is 281,790. There are approximately 305,586,828 people residing in the US today. Some simple math: 305,586,828 divided by 281,790 equals 1,083 people in the doctor's waiting room *before you*. And you think it's hard to get an appointment when your doctor has 300 patients?

Hmmmm...maybe Obama should return all the campain monies that he got from Franny may, Mac and any other companies that were given bailout money from the taxpayers. And send any Fannies like Rep. Frank to jail...if he really wants change, charge the dirty crooks that claim to represent us?

I am proud to be an American again! I am a former New Yorker who is glad that Florida is a blue state. Our new President Obama is smart, inspiring, competent and cool. He and his family are gorgeous. I am determined to be a better citizen and help get this nation back on the right track -- working to improve our environment and educational system - by volunteering in my community. Let us all make a decision to work together, promote peace and celebrate our diversity!

It is a democratic nation and the PEOPLE have spoken. Congrats to Obama, the President Elect.

He has much work ahead of him....let's see how he fares. There now maybe hope still for the beautiful world in which we all share. and HOPE is a truly beautiful thing.

God had spoken, this was already predistined when he was born, it is time for a change. Obama 08

I never been more prouder to be an american! unfortunetly I could not vote because I moved drastically out of state and they wouldnt let me vote due to paper and passed dates, but I was a supporter and very upset I coudlnt get to vote that tuesday, but so happy that he won I hope he follows through with his promises I know that it will be a very very long and hard road ahead of him I just hope he sticks with it and does his best. God bless him and his beauitful family.
And to those around the world thank you for your kind words and I apologize for all the crap the last administration did to this country and the world. God bless

There is absolutely nothing wrong with Mr. Obama as Mr. President other than he has only has about 4 years experience with national politics.
Hopefully he will learn quickly.

what is wrong with me, i'm asian and do not feel Obama guy is all that!!!
i myself wouldn't vote for my own race. what happen here is loyalty vs greed.
If you follow Obama's career then you know greed won! McCain's loyalty to country, and party did not serve him well, the old man got smoked by a wide margin,
the war heroes" didn't even come close in points. I wonder if theres any reflection in Mccain life, maybe he shouldn't have gungho in Hanoi, loyalty is a vain concept for this selfish country. the fight not worth fighting, only to fight the bitterness in the end. sorta like "No Country for Old Men"

Thank American people not god.They welcomed change.Yes its OBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA OBAMAOBAMA GOD BLESS AMERICA

You did well dear Americans... The world thanks you for this...

It's hard not to be moved by these images. Congratulation to President-elect Barack Obama!

Great Pics ! Great Leader !

He will make the changes to America :)

I can not express the amount of pride that I felt when they announced that we had elected Barack Obama as our new president. This overwhelming joy came from the depths of my soul and filled my entire being. I knew on the day of November 5th, that we as Americans had spoken and more importantly we had been heard. Congratulations Mr. President, may you reign with wisdom and grace, with integrity and tolerance and be a shining example of how we as people can and will co-exist with our differences yet similarities, our strengths yet our weaknesses, our victories as well as our defeats. I am happy to be me; an American!!!!!!!

Blah Blah Savior blah blah.
Call me in 4 years when you bitching about him too!

As I listen to the man, and watch his speech over and over, great Americans come to mind. People like Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, FDR, Martin Luther King. People who transformed the ideology and the future of our country for the better. I see this in Barak Obama, and honestly, if you can not understand what he is talking about, and can not see the substance in this man, then the problem in you. He is a visionary, he transcends politics, he gives hope to everyone in this country, and he is the embodiment of what America stands for. It doesn't matter what the color of your skin is, but the content of your character. He is the embodiment of Dr. Kings vision, and why I am so proud to be an American today.

cool pics

This victory will undoubtedly help to bridge racial barriers globally.
I believe that we will see a lot more mixed marriages. Great moment
for America and spin off lessons to be learnt by the 'world'. Not an easy
task. He will need the prayers and support of all.

Disappointed..... We called Canada. They said you're not invited eh.
And... you can't come here to Australia. Border Security are checking necks for acute redness...

Barack Obama on Nov. 4, 2008, at Grant Park in Chicago, IL. opening remarks:

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.

It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled – Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.

It's the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.

The rest can be read here.

http://www.abcnews.go.com/Politics/Vote2008/story?id=6181477&page=1

I haven't been this proud of the United States since Nov. 21, 1963. I am very, very proud of my country and extremely proud of our next president. I am just so happy and so hopeful.
Oh, yeah--fantastic photos. Outstanding work!

At one point last night 64% of the obama vote was by whites. Though i was not one of those, i am impressed with people who voted for the man and not by virtue of his color. I really wish people stop bashing republicans and whites. did we or did we not as a nation move past that!!! PEOPLE... you have witnessed history. Now we will see what he will do.

it's amazing how poor the grammar is in so many of these comments. I can't even bring myself to read the rest. The photos are beautiful though. And for all you who have little faith, remember the president doesn't run this country alone, he surrounds himself with intelligent advisers(committee/cabinet), you don't just vote for one person, you vote on morals, ethics, economics, policies of all types... where does the ignorance stop?

Its all said and done. I really just think a lot of people who are not happy about the outcome, are upset, because they don't want to admit to them being wrong. Give this man a chance before you bash him...This is the first time, I have ever voted, and Im 28. The first time I have ever been interested in politics. The first time I actually watch these people speak, without turning the television. This will also be the first time, that when they break through televsion programs, for the President Obama to speak, that I will listen. Its not because hes black, and so am I. At first I could have cared less, but the vibe that this man and his family gives is unexplainable....If you feel nothing you have a hateful soul that you carry, and may God bless you. As for John McCain, I can honestly say, I thought he was very sincere, and I wish him the best...................

If we are pleased with someone's actions in Australia we say "good onya mate".

To the people of America I say "good onya mate."

Well bloody done.

This is a wonderful, historical moment! The world needs someone like Obama who doesn't try to divide people-- he is someone who goes beyond color of skin, beyond hatred, beyond geography, beyond all these stupid little lines-- he's someone who can bridge communities. Yes, it's a change, and one of the changes is that it's in everyone's interest to be constructive for the future, because as it's been proven already, being destructive isn't going to help. For the past 8 years I've been afraid to say I'm American in other countries, but now... I'm proud. Go Obama!

Awesome body of work!

Thanks for sharing these for those of us who don't have access to U.S. media reports (I'm from Asia).

The full weight of this has yet to hit me. I am sitting hear rocking my baby girl to sleep thinking you can really be what every you work to be in this country. Our soon to be president didn't have things handed to him in his life and he had to do three times better than his competition to get this job. Now it is up to us all to become inspired by his life and make this world better, not just the USA the whole world. I am going to do it by spending 30 more minutes a day preparing my lessons as to better inspire my students. What are you going to do we have no excuse, not that we did before, but now there is evidence, not just ideas. The president can't really do a lot on his or hopefully one day her own. "Let's Roll" America!

Great job! A great day for America and all of us!

No, I'm not disappointed because he's black, stupid. I'm just sure that he, like all the others, cannot fulfill the mountain of campaign promises he made. "Get America off foreign oil in 10 years". Get real.

No, I wasn't a big fan of McCain, and I drive around with a bumper sticker of "Republican Against Bush."

I love number 18. So ominous! It gives me chills.

All of you crazies who are saying terrible things about the American people or talking about LAUGHING at all the failures you expect from the next administration should be ashamed. I am a true independent. I voted for McCain and I disagree with many (almost all) of Obama's policies. However, I have high hopes for Obama. I'm not the only one who gets to choose the President (and neither are you). The people of the United States chose this great man and I have more faith in the decisions of the American people than any other group on earth. This is a victory for all of us. Finally, we are all living in a nation where people young and old of every race go out and place their votes. Is this not what we have been hoping for in every election? People to fulfill their civic duties. This man truly deserves to be President after the incredible numbers of people who went out to vote. Not to mention the horrible white supremicists have finally been overcome. We are no longer above electing a black man to a high office, the highest one in the world in fact. We are the greatest country in the world and higher taxes, universal health care, and so on are not going to change that. I just wish all of you angry people would keep in mind that
JUST BECAUSE YOU DON'T AGREE DOESNT MEAN IT'S WRONG!

Today and everyday I am proud to be an American.

Scott J - I am proud to be your neighbor as fellow American.

To the bitter, angry folks posting on this blog - I don't hate you, because you are my family, friends, and co-workers too.

Let's work together as best we can, and make it better for everybody! Please? The world is watching!

To the 48% - better put your country first and fall in line. You had your chance, and the past 8 years shows what you've done with it. Greed, excess, war, bigotry. It is time for a change, and if you gotta cough up an extra 2 or 3 thousand a YEAR if you're making over 250k, excuse me if I can't find tears to shed for you.

We need a healthcare safety net for all Americans. We are extremely wealthy as a nation, and there is no reason an accidental sickness should remove one of our fellow citizens from the productive ranks of society due to lack of insurance. This will benefit all of us, how anyone can fail to see that is truly saddening.

beautiful pictures

As an Indian, and a World Citizen I am proud of you America. You have showcased the best in democracy, meritocracy and inclusiveness. India has a long way to go what with petty politicians playing dirty polical games to appease their respective vote banks. But Obama's victory allows even us Indians to dream a bit in these cynical times.

We the people for the people, great photo's, All ours prayers, and blessing go's to God and him along on this great day in America , a very historical moment for us and our new President Mr. Obama, well done, well done.

it's mind boggling. dont get me wrong - i'm for obama.
yet, the biggest supporters of obama vote for the ban of gay marriages, which is a strong component of human rights. it's full of hypocrisy and irony.

As a McCain supporter, I can only hope that President Obama can govern as eloquently as he orates.

However, if that should not come to pass, I hope all of you with your "We Did It" buttons and stickers will still be displaying them when the question is asked: Who allowed this mess?

I am not Obama supporter neither McCain. I hope Obama can be a good role model to his fellow black americans.

I hope he doesn't turn this country into what his brothers did to the many neighborhoods they inherited and turned into a garbage heap ghetto. I have never been so disgusted with this country as I am now. The American flag will never be flown at my house. I will fly the flag of my fathers fathers father. The Confederate Flag. With Pride.

Re: #208

What Obama has is the one true trait that leaders have - the ability to inspire.

We have not had a a leader with that quality since Reagan, and Kennedy before him. This is a onece in a generation leader. Agree with his views or not, he will move this county forward. Why? Because he inspires people to get involved. Even if you don;t agree with his views - get involved. Do something. Give back to the community of whi you are a part of. This is the gift the man has.

Is it just me or does picture #14 have an eerie resemblance / reminder of a middle east dictator?

YOU ROCK OBAMA !!!! I WANTED U 2 BE THE PRESIDENT AND I VOTED FOR YOU I AM A NEW YORKER !!!!! GO OBAMA YOU ROCK !!!!!!

I hope those promises Barry gave in his speeches are not empty words but it will come to reality. May he serve for the interest of the people and not on the vested interest of few elites. I'm hoping for a real change not only in the US but for the rest of the world. Freedom, Equality and Democracy reign!

Thanks and God bless America

Bill, I'm sorry you don't get it. Maybe it is because you have never struggled in your life and come out the other side. Perhaps you have never met anyone who simply by their demeanor, education, and vision inspired you to change your life. Or maybe you have never had an experience where you thought hope was all but lost and suddenly it appeared before your eyes. It could very well be that you have never had the opportunity to be part of something this big before. I believe, more than anything what we see is change that we can all particpate in. This is not about what he is going to do,for us but about what we are going to help him do for our country.. This is our c country. Yes WE can.

The days of the "with us or against us" Presidency ended the day we selected the new president, Obama. The divisiveness cultivated by the Bush Administration served his power but not the country.

Every American will make their own mind about our new President, but they should remember that they are no longer being coerced to support him. And Americans tend to be fair people, I think they will choose to give Obama the support he needs to be successful.

It's funny how the right already are positioning to shift all the blame for "this mess" on Obama before he's even sworn in. It's kind of typical. And it's confirmation that we all made the right choice in electing barack Obama our next president.

They can have their negativity. I'll take the power of positivity and Americans working TOGETHER over that crap any day. I'm glad they'll be out of power.

I'm optimistic about our future. now. Bye Bye Bush. Hello Barack Obama.

Yippee YAY YAY..

It's time to forgive and forget. I'll find the forgetting part easiest to start off with.

wonderful images as always. congratulations Barack - congratulations United States of America. We thank you.

I voted for Bush twice. Two of the worst mistakes of my life. I hope that everyone can feel the elation I feel today. I feel I redeemed myself this Tuesday. God bless President-elect Obama and our nation's future. USA! USA!

. I voted for him .

It's amazing how #61 is trying to jab at the intelligence of some people and displays his/her own ignorance about voting in the primaries/and presidential races. Also it's funny how people ask what make Obama qualified to be president when truthfully the only person who has any experience as president is an incumbent starting a second term. Why must these folk hate on Obama when the format used is the one that has been used forever in this great democracy we have. And when the tax breaks start rolling out for those who qualify for them, will they turn them down if they don't support Obama? No! They'll probably say something like "he's the president for all people." I agree with that but all people can't get behind him and support him as president. Bottom line is there is still a large part of white america that cannot bring themselves to accept the fact that come January 20, 2009 they will all be under the leadership of a black man. I believe it was Ghandi who said no change has ever happened without controversy (something like that) and that's true. The majority of the great people of america went out and voted for a great man and the best person for the job. Florida even got it right this time. God bless america, and the next president of america.

I'm very proud of this country and what a huge victory for Barack. I voted for the man and I knew even back during the Convention that "this is the Man who could potentially be the best President in the history of the USA!" He's very humble and very inspiring to both the younger folks and older folks. But like Barack said Tuesday night that it's going to take hard work, dedication, faithfullness and time to get us back on track. We all should pull together as ONE nation, and not separated like we have in the past. I'm aspiring to become a teacher. Either in public or private school, hopefully in Art teaching. Obama has given me more courage than anyone to see my own dreams come alive. So Peace be with us All!!!

It is with great anticipation, based on the majority of these comments, that the education policies will be a top priority.
"To lodge all power in one party and keep it there is to insure bad government."
Mark Twain
Republicans had their shot and they have been fired. Democrats are at the plate...
The hope of a new era...intoxicating.
The reality? I wish Mr. Obama was an independent.

#307
Spoken like a true racist. You don't have to like it but you better learn to live with it because America has spoken. A new day is dawning and I look forward to see how far we have come and will go as a nation.

People are carried away in the hubris and novelty of the racial breakthrough. But wait until the honeymoon is over. We will wake up next to our new ultra-liberal, overly-idealistic, socialist president and his cronies, as unprepared and ill-equipped to handle today's challenges as Bush.

It's a bittersweet day.

good

These are beautiful pictures, this is the hope the USA needs at this hard times. America has a second change to become respected again in the world for the right reasons as it was a long time ago.
Congratulations for the right choice from Malaysia

Four years ago, when Americans re-elected Bush as President, I sincerely questioned their sanities!! But understood that their "other" choice would also be disaster.
Yesterday, whether you all were a McCain or Obama supporters, you cannot ignore one simple reality. One that shock the whole "world" LITERALLY!!
Americans were able to see beyond skin colour and elect an African American President. Americans clearly sent Bush a strong VERY strong Message.
The most memorable, the most beautiful part of it all that will forever live within my heart was watching, whites hugging blacks, old hugging young...complete strangers coming together... screaming and crying tears of joy, of such profound happiness, with such a sense of pride.... WOW......WOW....WOW.................I never thought I would LIVE to see the day!
To all you americans thank you so very much! Peace starts within the country itself before you try to preach about it to other countries...... Last night thats what the United States of America Stood for....and damn as a Canadian Im finally able to say .... IM SO PROUD OF YOU ALL and So proud to have you as my neighbors.

Obama...Congratulations...I have no doubts youwill go down in history as one of the best Presidents. McCain, though I truly opposed your selection of Sarah Palin as VP..(quite a nasty piece of work she is).... you being such an honourable American with your vow to serve the country you love.... should unite with Obama and help him lead Americans and the country to its best.

One person alone does not change the country or make it better. The two of you working together would make the Great USA....great again!!

Damn, Im just soooooooooo damn proud!!! Americans FINALLY got it right LOL.

God Bless America....

Wow, there are a lot of bitter and obsessed people here. The tone here is akin to a kindergarten playground.

Since this is a photoblog I'll restrict my comments to the images, which are great as usually. I have to say though, Callie Shell's images are amazing and will surely now go down in history as a record of the early days of Obama's story.

The comments from some McCain supporters are sad. Do I hear sore losers. Remember it 's the Republican Party who brought down the whole country. Who stained U.S. foreign policies, allowed torture, run away spending, cut taxes at time of war (no President has ever done that) and told to go shopping; lobbyist creating their own bills; foresaked the Constitution; abuse of power; broken all ethic laws and so on. Some Republicans have the gall to say good luck messing up the country. No one can take the Republicans place of defilement, greed and lust for money; special interest groups and CEO friends, who cut pay; allowed cheap labor; jobs shipped over seas. Shall I go on. Who made the country a disdain of all nations. No one can duplicate all the historical blunders and mishaps, corruption and blatent run away partisionship. They need to redo their brand. They have become like country clubs with exclusive membership only. Thank God a new day has dawned because after 8 years of hell and living in the valley of the shadow of death we can see light at the end of the tunnel. OBAMA!

I was happy to hear the unsuprising news on Obama being crowned as president of United State.
Some where in the bottom of every individual hearts present in the entire world wanted Obama to become "The One" .
He truly deserves not only to be the leader of US but to the entire world.
I salute completely to this wonderful human being and wish him the best experiences and may god bless him and US and the world with Showers of millions of richness,love,strength and peace.
On this great day i have taken an oath to be part in reviving US economy and world economy thereby.
An India by birth but World Citizen by nature.
I am sure days will be close by for me to work in US and there by serve US the nation under this legend.
YES WE CAN
YES World Economy CAN
YES I CAN

TO ALL THAT VOTED FOR MCCAIN:
I'm not sorry your 8 years of the criminal administration you vote for is coming to and end. How sad you must be that Bush and Cheney won't be raping the American people while their buddies in the corporate world line their pockets and set up financial portfolios that will last into their grandchildren’s lifetimes. Do you lay awake at night and giggle as you think about the parents that are weeping for the sons and daughters they lost in the war your administration lied about and is still profiting from?
Sara

I have been a republican my entire life but after Bush this last 4 years my 56 year old butt decided never again. I have never seen a party so bent on destroying poor people while enriching the rich. As a disabled Vietnam vet I'm tired of being told no on health care because of cut backs but watch Iraq with millions of dollars in the bank get our money to improve their lives. I hope & pray he will not turn out like politicians in the past making lots of promises and failing to keep them. I pray even more with the nut jobs we have in this country the secret service knows they have a tough job ahead of them.

God...I have never felt more proud of this country then in the last two days.

I only wished his grandmother were alive to witness this greatness

Good one...

I voted to Senator Barack Obama..

Well I'm very proud to be a black
american. I am very proud of our president elect. It is a very historical event . Now is the time to really pray for him and his family. That he is guided to do what is best for our county. People there is no time to fight and fuss. Our president has a job to do and we need to be supportive in what ever he is trying to do for our country. There has been so much division amongst us. Lets pull together and get our country back on it's feet.

waw....wonderful images as always. congratulations President Obama- congratulations United States of America. We thank you and we hope you make new and good name in the world political. God Bless You my Brother.

To everyone who had the vision and courage to vote for Obama, "thank you". I don't think I - or much of the rest of the world - could stomach another few years of Bush-era policies that McCain clearly intended to continue. Obama appears to be a very intelligent, sincere, and thoughtful President-elect, and I think he represents the change that the US needs. There's hope for our southern neighbours, after all... congratulations & thank you from Canada!

yes we can

I love these photos. Thanks for posting.

Dear Neighbours of this global village!

For the last eight years we felt so distant and misunderstood.
That time has come to an end now.

One world - one race!

Congratulations!

Greetings and hugs from Vienna, Austria, Europe

P.S.: When you come to visit our little country you don't have to pretend being Canadian anymore! ;-)

I just came across this terrific photo-mosaic that features over 700 front-pages from newspapers around the world celebrating Obama's victory:

http://flickr.com/photos/35343852@N00/3007626800/

Truly amazing!

I voted for the first time in my life. I turned 50 on Election Day. Never have I been so moved to have my voice heard. Barack Obama is brilliant, kind, charming and motivating....and so many more great qualities. He may not be able to fix everything in 4 years but he will be a breath of fresh air. Positive energy will bring this country back together if we all unite and give a damn. He's the perfect one to lead us.

"Oh, and one more thing: screw the youth vote."
"225 years is a pretty good run for a republic, historically speaking."
"Four years of a nation led by criminals... "
"anyone who dares to speak out [will be] drafted, skullchip-implanted, and sent down to Guantanamo"

Reactions to 2004 elections.

Isn't is nice not to have to retype everything. Dems already wrote this.

I did not vote for Barack based on the words of Martin Luther King, he said," JUDGE A MAN BY THE CONTENT OF HIS CHARACTER NOT BY THE COLOR OF HIS SKIN". We judge character based ones actions not their words. I am willing to give him a chance. When the rubber meets the road, we will see if all the effusive hype and gratuitous praise will still stand. I really hope he can make a difference for all of our sakes. But I will not hold my breath.

L'Europe espère beaucoup de cette élection remarquable ! La France respecte trop les USA pour ne pas avoir été troublée par l'unilatéralisme de Bush ! Le monde ne se construira pas "les uns contre les autre" mais "les uns avec les autres" ! La culture Européenne, Française, reste très ouverte, mais souhaite davantage partager qu'être submergée par les Etats-Unis.
Nous sommes heureux pour vous, nous sommes heureux pour le monde.
Bonne chance et courage, Monsieur OBAMA.

When all us said and done, neither candidate would be able to produce all promised during the campain. We have a genuine need for change. Our country could not stand another 4/8 years of the same. I voted for Obama, but with realistic expectations. President (elect) Obama has a tough row to hoe (as they say). It won't be peaches and cream and he will make some mistakes. Reguardless of who you wanted to win or whom you voted for, we have a new president and united we should support him.....................................OBAMA*08*O'YEAH!
YES WE CAN*************************YES WE DID!!!!!
YES

Wow 21st century and yet we still act like its 1960, I live in tx please dont insult my inteligence I have a degree two of them actually , America has spoken and we chose who we thought would do the best job and reunite america with the rest of the world instead of alienating it from the rest of the world like G.dubya did, I lived here when he screwed Tx so don't even play like it was a good thing when he was in office. No doubt this is a historical moment in black history ,but this ain't no color thing be proud regardlessof your ethnic background, now you know you can do anything its all about what you put into it

Hey Guys!

Greetings from Austria! Let me be honest.... I didnt't have the best opinion about the US in the last few years. But(!) this election impressed me and also made me a bit emotional. This is a huge step forward for America and the world. Congratulations!

Greece for Obama.. !!!!
We hope (and are almost sure) that he won't have the same stupid ideas about our issues like the previous president..We are in the other half of the planet but America influenses us a lot.We "envy" you for the inspirating president..It's been a loooong time since we had a man like him standing up for our country (Greece is maybe having the most corrupted goverment in Europe)..Every time I see these pictures I get emotional and proud of this man..Not because he is younger or has different colour than the previous presidents...
But because of that clear look in his eyes that makes you feel safe..
Congratulations Barack Obama!

I watched President (Elect) Obama's winning speech yesterday here in the UK. I have only once before witnessed a speech that sent shivers of joy, disbelief, hope and amazement through me.

That was when Nelson Mandela overthrew the oppression of Apartheid and became South Africa's first native President.

Obama is TRULY a great man. America - Seize The Day! I'm proud of you all. Truly proud!

Congratulations with your victory Barack Obama, President of the United States of America. I wish you good luck with everything that comes on your path and of course the people in America.

skazhi, s kakoj storini tebja ebet? posmotri vpered, nedoumok.

Never in my life have I experienced such a euphoric election, right from Obama and Hillary ...for Obama and Hillary it was the toughest.. then to me the victroy over Hillary was the turning point for Obama...once this was over I knew it was going to be a walk through for Obama.. He was the right choice for the Democrat..and he did get it..Then he was the great choice for the President and the White house..and He is....The turn out for the voting was much more than my expectation..Fantastic America..Only shows how frustrated all were for a Change..Oh! my what a theme it was from the camp of Obama ..The Change...
and whoelse can be a better person for the Whitehouse..its you Obama....
his body language+communication+confidence+attitude+youth are all his strength..and he has made it..Positve vibrations to you OBAMA..u are the 44th and gonna be the 45th also ..u have the power for this powerful seat of the world..rule it..enjoy it ..live it....Good Wishes for a strong body...

Nice photos...

...perfectly orchestrated via PR Guru/Campaign Strategist David Axelrod & Company. Photo #20 was utilized on Ebony Magazine's Cover (you can purchase the cover in a frame, or on a T-shirt!). And though it is a new day in America with the election of Senator Obama, the first (undeniably) African American President, I hope that President-elect Obama will work to demonstrate that he is more than just an eloquent speaker. The losing candidates within the primary and general elections have worked for their constituents longer than Obama. Remember, Obama was the 99th ranked Senator in Congress; now all the members must "kiss his ring". If President-elect Obama selects a good cabinet, it will keep him from looking as if he's receiving "on the job training" anyway ;). Well, at the very least, Obama will be a MUCH better president than GW Bush, and the world is happy with America once again. Congratulations to all who helped Obama (campaign staff, the public who truly supported and financed his election after reneging his agreement with Senator McCain about not taking the money, the media*** who made Obama the new 'Teflon Don' with minimizing negative coverage on him while minimizing the "non essential" candidates in the primaries and demonizing the remaining nominees, Joe Biden, Hillary and Bill Clinton who campaigned very hard [after most folks wrote them off] to help Obama win BOTH Ohio and Florida, and President Bush, who abused his presidential power so greatly that no Republican candidate- particulary McCain since he beat him twice in the nomination- could win). ***With the exception of Boston Globe-- your publishing house did a creditable job in presenting all the candidates news; the good, the bad and the ugly. Unfortunately, most of America didn't read it ;)!

im not american but his supporter

ß íàäåþñü ÷òî â ñòîëü ñëîæíîå ýêîíîìè÷åñêîå âðåìÿ, îí íàéäåò ñèëû â ñåáå è íàëàäèò íîðìàëüíûå îòíîøåíèÿ Àìåðèêè ñ äðóãèìè ãîñóäàðñòâàìè. Ñëèøêîì ìíîãî íà íåãî ñìîòðÿò è íàäåþòñÿ. Äà åùå è àôðî-àìåðèêàíåö, îøèáîê åìó íå ïðîñòÿò.

congratulations America, sometimes the right choices are in fact not the hard ones, as a South African who believes in positive change ... I can only say that as great a moment this is ... it is only the first step ... lets hope America will never let the light out again ... and it's is good to see the flame of hope in a better world rekindled

and then the stock market collapses. again.

This is a popularity contest based on personallities in a true Hollywood fashion. They are treated like movie stars and models, and I doubt that what they say is actually what they stand for. Some are a 'lil bit country and some are a 'lil bit Rock 'n Roll!

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA TO ALL YOU MCAIN PEOPLE!!!!! I TOLD YOU ALL TO SHUT UP CUZ THERES NO WAY MCAIN WOUDVE WON!!!! HA HA I TOLD YOU!!!
VICTORY FEELS SO SWEET!!!!

Finally having brains in the white house. Its like a breath of fresh air :D

BRAVO United States !
At Least it's the end of Bush's years
OBAMA represents for us ( French people and European people) the link with others ( the countriesother all over the world)
WE TRUST in you, Barack !

Congrats from Belgium. Hope for change has returned !

congratulations Barack - congratulations United States of America.....
Brilliant pictures , simple awsome ... too good photos !!

monsieur le PRÉSIDENT,je viens de prendre connaissance de tout votre parcours;vous devez etre décoré! je vous admire........ je vous souhaite un franc succes et dqueDIEU vous bénisse ainsi que votre belle famille .Bravo!!!!!!!

I began reading a good majority of the comments left on this page, starting with number two-hundred and twenty. What I have noticed is that many seem to think Obama is going to change things that have gotten worse over the past several years. What I don't understand is how with a congress that did not see much change, how these people think anything will appreciably change in the near future. The President has little power to change laws that have caused the problems in America. Secondly, I notice that many of you, some of which have been putting down others comments, need some lessons in grammar and writing. Please, if you are going to make a post which many are going to read, try not to look like a buffoon.

I hope America hasn't done something it regrets.

He wears a lot of "blue!" I suppose it's a friendly colour.. Great photos!

Something I had written for myself after the Texas and Ohio primaries. Now America has grown up and is having her graduation celebration.

The aura of Barack Obama

“It’s not about race or gender”. “It is not about experience or issues”. This was some time ago. At this point in time, after the Texas and Ohio primaries, and after what can be considered a Presidential speech by Barack Obama about troubled America, media has quoted, analyzed, given much opinion, and judged where these two Democratic candidates have arrived. Certain results are apparent. These concern strategy and motivation. These two words themselves define how each campaign has been run.

On the one side, the feeling is that every possible difference in voter base, such as apparent animosity between Hispanics and African Americans is to be exploited. The strategy is of calculation and manipulation, the motivation is the desired outcome no matter what. On the other it is that all groups no matter what their differences are, should be united. The strategy is forward-looking motivation.

The choice by Clinton not to value ‘lesser’ States shows a disregard for Americans wherever they will not produce hoped-for delegate counts. That Obama fights for each State may be attributed to his supposed ‘underdog’ standing, but it also shows a desire (and need) to involve All America.

Our democratic process allows a vote cast by someone who has given much thought based upon his perception of a candidate, to be canceled by the vote of someone else who may not like the color (of his tie). Here is an unspoken reality: the fact is that all men may be created equal, but personal history, environment, education, natural ability, and a multitude of factors that shape character have produced a rainbow of individual cultural/class levels, and therefore responses to events, to the substance and style of a candidate. These levels transcend all ethnic groups, are hopefully dynamic, and movement from one level to a next higher is mostly generational.

On this cultural curve we find those who have judged and accepted ideals that have gone beyond issues, however important they are, to embrace the positive credo of Barack Obama. Polls have shown that these people tend to be the more affluent and educated voters. This group will applaud the recent speech on Race as being a truly wonderful and courageous event. Obama has tried to appeal to integrity and basic human values.

At an opposite end of voter awareness will be those that may not yet be able to judge valid parameters, and are easily influenced and persuaded by persistent targeted negative media coverage (involving Jeremiah Wright Jr.). The Clinton campaign (think the 3am telephone TV bit) is addressing and expecting a response from a negative mindset. This is democracy of the lowest common denominator.

Here is a strange paradox. Those who would benefit the most by the ideals of Barack Obama are the least able to perceive the answer to their need.

If there is a question about experience, another question should be asked. How could Obama, who little more than a year ago was almost unknown to many Americans, be able to create a campaign structure that is so effective and self-sufficient? No man or woman can be all things to all situations. But he can take the lead and promote the environment that nurtures the most studious response possible. This should be seen as an indication of how he would affront the many issues facing him as President. His campaign is not run on influence and favoritism. It is run on passion. People want to be led by someone who believes in himself and his ideals.

One word may describe the aura of Barack Obama. It is elegance. Elegance in the sense of clean and clear guiding standards. People respond to this. It is an internal human realization in the same way that one responds to something obviously beautiful that people create, whether it is music or art, or the resonance of compelling thought.

For the first time since John Kennedy “Think not what your Country can do for you…” has there come upon the American political scene a man with the ability to convey such personal conviction of what is ‘right’. Barack Obama creates excitement. His purity and eloquence are a beacon that attracts the young and the hopeful, that will attract the competent experience of like-minded political co-workers to his side, and that will shine to a hopeful world proclaiming that America has regained her former ideological place.

A parting phrase in many of Obama’s speeches has been “God bless you”. A God of a place of worship, surely, but also a God of self-determination. This God is evident in what people create and what they transmit to others. This God is evident in what people hold important and try to preserve. This God is not some being outside of us to be worshiped, but resides within ourselves. God bless us all...

The name ‘Barack’ translates to ‘blessed’ in several languages. Let us Hope that America will allow herself to be blessed.

…”Sometimes it takes a while to recognize that someone has a special ability to get us to believe in ourselves, to tie that belief to our highest ideals and imagine that together we can do great things. In those rare moments, when such a person comes along, we need to put aside our plans and reach for what we know is possible.”… (Caroline Kennedy)

These are better times for ALL of us. We are filled with HOPE and the speculation that life will be be better for the masses.... That's US...

Very Awesome Pictures!

I am proud that he made it .. and time for a real change has come ..we together as a single community under world roof will strive towards betterment of human socitey leaving behaind color and creed .

I'm British and very excited by the American choice of Presidency, trends in Britain (be they economic, social or political) often follow the American trend; and in this mess we call the 21st century this choice has given people around the world something we lacked.

Hope.

Thanks, and long live the commander in chief.

Nice picture maybe this will be the time to change between the black american and the white one.. GOD is really so Good.....CONGRATULATIONS>>>>>>>

wonderful photos!

its high time for this change!

Obama has been compared to Keneedy and he is comparable everyone loves him and he is not even President yet. He has a very human side, he is willing to come down off the hill and get his hands wet with mister and misses everybody. I do hope he does not change and keeps that side we already love.

Beautiful pictures by the way.

I am a Singaporean living in Switzerland. I am totally elated by the Americans choice of Obama as next President of USA. Your country will certainly rise up again as a united and strong nation under the leadership of President Obama and Co.

On this day, I feel the joy for America and may God bless President Obama and all the people pursuing the American Dream. You can do it. And well.

Hi Obama! You are looking so smart... All the very best for the journey ....

This man will change the history.
Best thing that the american people did in the last 8 years.

The best birthday I could ever have, to see the world change on a day I will never forget, the world coming together guided by a man of light who is changing the fabric of reality forever! We are all one! Obama you are love, thank you!

President Elect Obama represents a new chapter in the evolution of our country. May The Lord guide his steps most gracious and wisely.

What incredible pictures!!!
I got goose bumps just by looking at these pic’s!!
OBAMA ROCKS!!! Well done!!

H.O.P.E. all they way from the Netherlands

Brenda Silooy

I like him

Wow, picture #28 is specially good, nice collection of photos...

great achiever

You gave the world a great lesson today.
I just hope we could learn about it.
Congratulations to all of you, it's the proof we can do something together.

A Great Man, A Noble Pleople
In Peace and Unity, Let America Flourish and help the World change for Better

C.k .Chamy from Tamil Nadu ( india )

President Obama told " Change We need " , Yes ofcourse we all need change.

No WAR No CRY .... Yes LOVE ........If he proves all his words defenetly the whole world never forget this man ever ............ I am an Indian and never ever had this much intrest in US election and inspired too but this time this man did something.

I can say only one Americans are really lucky fellows. Lets us not talk about white / Balck / Brown / Yellow say

Love

Awesome photography on a charismatic leader.

Wish we had one like him over here in Holland !!

A change is what America needs at this point of the time. The whole world would also be influenced by this change. God knows best!!!

He may give dignity back to America.

AMAZING PICTURES !!! This is MAGIC. Is truly awesome and thrilling to see BARACK OBAMA transformed hope into reality.
it is just like when a catholic, JFK won for the first time truly separating religion from matters of the state. It also shows that Americans have slammed the door shut on race and are focussing on the contend of character as martin luther king wanted and dreamt.
such things can happen only in USA as they have great laws passed over the 2 two centuries to deal with political problems and take americans to greater heights.

Europe doesnt even have fixed election dates as USA. how are they going to help change the world. may be barack obama can tell the europeans to fix their election dates as a beginning to change their corrupt politics.

Wow...

I did not vote for Obama or his values but as a true American it is my civic duty to stand behind him and our country's decision. I am concerned about how he will represent us to the world. I am concerned if he is a man of his word and of honor. I am concerned that he is a liberal in conservative clothing. Only time wil tell.I am not in the least concerned with his color. I think it says something for America as a whole to have voted him into office. I am american indian and european. I could complain about how the white man killed off my people and put them into slavery too. Fortunetely we do not live in the past. "Obama, make us proud and proove the doubters wrong."

Black people will have chance, to come up in life after his leadership comes to true

CONGRATULATIONS
WE ARE VERY HAPPY GOD BLESS YOU ,WE ASK MR PRESIDENT OBAMA
TO BRING PEACE TO THE WORLD .

As a McCain Supporter I'm happy to stand by our next new President. America first, politics second.

OBAMA IS ONLY A MAN OF THIS CENTURY WHO BECAME A ROLE MODEL OF A SUCCESSFUL LEADER TO BRING OPPOSITION INTO HIS CAMP. LET US JOIN HANDS TOGETHER TO BRING END TO THE HATRED CARRIED THROUGH AGES IN THE NAME OF RELIGION AND RACIAL DIVISIONS. MAY GOD BLESS OBAMA TO CARRY OUT THIS TASK SUCCESSFULLY.

to #309:

no, it's just you.

Let this Democratic win pave the way for a fullstop to the racial discrimination.
A historic moment....
Obama will present a new solution to the American economial situation.

HOT, sincere, loyal, cool, honest, loving, caring, faithful, inspiring, hopeful, not just smart but more importantly WISE.....cool..just simply COOL...are the words that define him, and are definitely evident in this moment and resignate all across America and the entire world.

I know that this was orchestrated by God long before. Look at his biography and "composition" and you will see that everyone across the world has a piece of this guy. An AFRICAN AMERICAN man with a CAUCASIAN/WHITE mother whose dad was AFRICAN and has a moslem name HUSSEIN. His last name OBAMA is the same as a village in ASIA...born in HAWAII, raised partly in INDONESIA, moved on the mainland and his family was at one time on PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, he took out student loans and grants and attended college and is now considered an ELITE...... God I could go on and on......

Also, this was definitely the right timing, because the WORLD..not just the USA..needs a well rounded person to be in charge in order to UNITE everyone regardless of our backgrounds to restore the core values that WE ALL share and uphold as a HUMANS in the world, that is, justice, respect, dignity, hope, among others.

This personally is an affirmation of faith that God's Will prevails even in moments when our hopes are frail.

Nothing will change. Mark these words.

I moved to this country as a child, and became a US citizen in '93. I've never been so proud to say I became an American as I can today.

He is the great president of this century! I am confident that he brings a change - a revolution to this country, to the economy and to the people of USA!!

ok good

Wonderful photographs of the right man for the United States of America! President elect Obama's resounding victory is a testament of how democracy works in the US!

The best favour you can do to yourself is to follow Obama's inspiration and be part of the american dream instead of waiting on the sideline waiting for the outcome of his presidency's performance. Be part of the game for the good of all americans.
NB I am not american but I am interested by what the americans do as it always affects me, no matter what corner of the world I am hiding in.

Que buenas fotos! felicitaciones por la presidencia

A great day for the USA and the world. Having grown up in the US and dealing with the injustices that have been heaped on African descendant people, I can only say that America has finally done me proud. I pray that the nation can unite around our new President-elect, and around the ideals for which he stands. The time has arrived for us to shed the race and class divisions which have plagued the US and the world for far too long.

i v never been so inspired..i mean this guy is so cool..i suppose that explains why so many young guys came out to vote..reminds me of the day we elected nelson mandela as our president....well done America..the world is celebrating with you for a change....

The sentiment here from those of us outside of the USA appears to follow a common theme.

Our disdain and distrust of the US has changed to optimism for the future.
It has been a painful 8 years watching a respected nation wallow in borderline fascist self destruction. I actually decided that if I had the opportunity to visit every country in the world, I would have avoided the US.

Now that has changed.

Thankyou to those that made this happen. If the future is even half as bright as what we all hope, it will be a finer future for all.

The problem is that many people used this as their first time to vote. Like anonymous up above, 28yrs old and just now voting. That shows apathy for your country. You sir, and people like you, are the problem. All you do is bitch every election rather than vote. Then, when you do vote, you do so in an uneducated way. I'll bet most of you Obama voter's don't know anything about him. I know you don't. If you did, you surely would not have voted for him. my website www.myfuckingopinion.com (not Safe for work), has the info you didn't get on CNN.

CHANGE
Come Help A Negro Get Elected

Great pictures, Obama gives me hope, hope that in Germany people will use their democratic possibilities to go further.

I am proud to be an American again! I feel the spirit of positive change upon the world!

Now start packing Bush...Oh and take your oil friends and private war profiteer friends and Cheney and the lot with you. No oil independence, no healthcare coverage for pre-existing conditions, rich get richer, poor get poorer, no regulations for wall street, one stock market crash where people have lost 25-50% of their retirement, no stem cell research, insult our allies, two endless occupations, absolute failure at handling Katrina, spying on Americans, the patriot act... I literally can go on all day and night. I'm proud to be an American. I forgot what that feels like. I never thought I would need to say this, but, please God keep this man safe.

I just cannot possibly understand why even the most racist individual cannot understand that our country is in turmoil and is in dire need of a drastic change of the Bush administration. We have a chance to stop hating each other because of the color of our skin and focus on making this country the Greatest Country once again. Put aside your hatred, we bleed the same. It is time to judge a man by whats in his heart and not whats in his pocket or the color of his skin. Give him a chance he is a man that represents the world. Half black -Half white - African Heritage- Indonesian/ Hawiian childhood and a White persons upbringing.

I am for sure he is the man who is going to change everything. He is going to be spoken by the world as the BEST in the HISTORY of MAN KIND.

The best thing the Americans have done in a LONG time. Well done....have a great 4 years.
The Other Side of the Planet

I look at so many of these photos and can't help but think: JIGSAW PUZZLE anyone?

America has gone to hell in a handbasket with bows, lace and all the rick rack it could find. I AM ASHAMED OF MY COUNTRY!!!!
America welcome to what you asked for. He may becoming the president of my country (if they find he qualifies) but he will never be my president.

the photos were great. iam seriously praying for Obama and i'm sure he will always remember his backgound in anything he plans to do. he has made history, so be it. from Yemi Aderemi, Nigeria.

An amazing collection of photos of a true, old fashioned statesman. President Elect Obama is a return of intelligence, ideology and hope, over the cynicism and celebration of stupidity that generally characterises US politics. As a Briton, who sees my own political landscape tainted with the same dumbing down and disconnection from ordinary people as yours has been for at least the past 8 years, I say well done and thank you, America. You've given hope back to the rest of the world. I truly hope that you, and Obama, take this opportunity and capitalise on it.

Wonderful.
really astonishing pictures.
can't wait share those...

thanks

We of the World not in USA salute the return of American Honesty, VIA DEMOCRACY,to the Administration.
We expect leadership, and, difficulties which can be overcome with equitable and compassionate firm government. We expect we shall be dissappointed, after all Obama "walks not on water"! We do not expect perfection only an end to the preferences given to the failed plutocrats, and their pursuing to insist they pay their fail share of taxation into the common weal. They ran fast enough to socialist values to bail out thEir piggy bank failure. YES YOU CAN FIX IT OBAMA. WE ARE CONFIDENT YOU SHALL DO YOUR BEST FOR USA AND THE WORLD.

My problem with this election is that most African American voters voted in an uneducated way. Most of them just voted for the first time. Most of them don't even know what he stands for. They just voted for him because he was black. That is just wrong and what is wrong with America today. It was basing everything on race. In my eyes Obama is just as much white as he is black. Obama didn't get to where he was today with the help of any African Americans. His dad was black, and his mom was white. Where was his father when Obama was growing up? Obama was raised by his white mother and his white grandparents. In my eyes, this is not a big win for African Americans because there were none who played a part in his life to get him where he is today. This is NOT what people should be focusing on. Shame on everyone who voted for him just because of race!!

I have goosebumps looking at these pictures!!! OBAMA, OBAMA OBAMA!!

Is it me, or does #11 make Obama look like he is in the Matrix about to fight Agent Smith?

Gobama! I have always loved my country. But now I can be proud of it, too.

OBAMA IS ONE IN THE WORLD AND THE BEST I THINK HE IS GOD SEND.

I am looking forward to seeing President Obama get busy in running the country. The Democrats have lots of power now ..... so they finally get the chance to fix that which was broken. I have 2 fears .....(1) National Security (2) Unborn Children
I'm not going to wave any "Stop Abortion Signs" here , but looking back at Obama's record on Life issues for the unborn... it is sad.
BUT I will pray for Him and his Team ............. God Bless American and God Bless Pres. Obama

"BE THE CHANGE THAT WE WANT TO SEE”...

LETS ALL PESONALLY DO SOMETHING THAT WOULD CREATE CHANGE IN OUR COMMUNITY.

I AM NOT WAITING FOR OBAMA TO HELP MY NEIGHBOR, I WILL LEND HIM A HAND MY SELF, AND IM SURE THIS IS CONSTANT WITH HIS MESSAGE!
GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Hope he will do best, he has done it for his hard work. Congrats Obama !

Thank God, Thank God,! We have finally gotten it right. The Bush administration has robbed this country long enough. President Obama, May God continue to richly bless and keep you and our great nation.
I am so proud or us as a nation! I just wish my father who was not able to vote until 1967 because of the color of his skin. I just wish he could have been here to withess this great moment.
Please, please , let us ALL pull together to work as ONE for the good of us ALL

#307...is it any wonder that your name is Bubba? Your bigotry will be your ultimate demise.

Wow! Awesome photos - are any for sale?

For the first time in my life I voted based on party and not on the candidate. John McCain is an admirable and accomplished man who has served this country admirably. However, conservative economics and foreign policy are just disastrous.
On the other hand, I view Obama as an opportunist and as someone who would sell his own mother down the road if it would result in political gain. But fortunately, this kind of lackluster candidate belonged on the Democratic side of the ballot.
Inclusive? Hell no. This is the most divisive campaign that I can remember. And trust me...when this 'grassroots' campaign strategy becomes the norm, watch how many of the young people drop off the map. Obama made politics cool and gave people a reason to become involved. But the trend will last only so long before a new one emerges.

Oh what a blessing it is to be an active participant in the rewriting of U.S./ World history! Oh, what a great feeling just to take part in one of the greatest days in U.S. political history! Barack Obama becoming the first African-American President is one of the most significant events in the political history of America. I am thrilled to have witnessed an event of this magnitude in my lifetime. The hopes & dreams of countless others before us has finally been realized. After more than 200 years of Bush-like doctrines, broken campaign promises,failed policies and shallow/self-serving belief systems...a change was definitely long overdue! It's great to see that people are finally fed up with status-quo BS enough to exercise their voting rights in record numbers enough to effect this much needed change. Congratulations to our President-elect,to his family and to everyone brave enough and fed up enough to support & embrace the possibility of CHANGE.

As a day of congratulator remarks and endless celebration comes to a conclusion; I wonder to what amount are we going to hold ourselves responsible.

The impact the newly elected president-elect will have is undeniably, one of great social change. However, the changes that he brings to minorities around the world is one of overcommence. He forces those around the world to become more then just what is expected of them. To break through racial walls and become what they have dreamed of themselves.

What is needed to be understood is that he is only the catalyst towards a progressive way of thinking and what is asked from us, as a people, is that we take part in creating an environment that holds itself to higher moral values. The time of the "race card" is finally over and coexistence among all is finally relized.

"The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew and act anew." - Abraham Lincoln

Number 62:
Unfortunately, the majority of voters were young and inexperienced.
I did a small random poll of college aged employees and was amazed at the answers.
1) Q: How long has Obama been a Senator?
A: I don't know, twenty years? (one out of 25 got it right.
2) Q:What State is he Senator of?
A: Don't know, don't care.
3) Q: What has he accomplished as Senaotr?
A: Not sur
4) Q: What qaulifications does he have to run the US.
A: McCain is too old.
Amazing isn't it?
Also, as I read through some blogs and whatnot, there is a video blog I saw where people submit personal video clips and such.... One showed a woman in N Carolina that did not vote in the Preliminaries and was not allowed to vote in the Election... There was a Lawyer there put there by the Obama Campain that allowed her to fill out an affidavit and she was then allowed to vote... this is not right!
If you do not follow the rules of the Elelction, you should not be allowed to vote.... SIMPLE!

Go out an poll the elderly, or any other group for that matter. You will get the same answers, I guarantee you. You will never avoid people who are voting based on reasons that are not the same as yours. Experience is one reason to vote for a person, but there are others. At this point in time the last thing you should be doing is placing anger on others, especially young people who are generally passionate and optimistic about where the world is headed. I am 22 and am in college, and all that I have seen around me is passion and excitement, certaintly NOT apathy or ignorance. And, by the way, speaking of ignorance, maybe you should look into policy about voting. EVERYONE has the right to a provisional ballot, registered or not. Period.

I am proud that America has made this choice. I am glad to be inheriting a world that is more positive and caring than I once thought.

I only hope that people can put the anger that I have seen aside to tackle the overwhelming problems that our nation faces. And to those who are up to the task, more power to you.

The Pictures love
They negtive comments.... You can keep

In the course of human events, sometimes it takes a great soldier to make a huge sacrifice, even if it is from his heart instead of his head, even if it is from his failures rather than his successes; truthfully, it is what is in the heart of a person that drives their decisions and, in this case, the desire from the heart was to serve the nation more than the desire to become President. Thank you, Senator McCain, for having the heart of a great soldier. You have once again made a huge sacrifice for the good of the nation and this time from the heart more than from any other word or action. Anyone with the experience of Senator McCain does not make those types of strategic mistakes unless the heart overrules everything else. God bless America!

BOM DIA

O MUNDO VIVENCERÁ UMA NOVA ERA DE PAZ COM OBAMA NO PODER

ESTA CONQUISTA HISTÓRICA DE BARACK OBAMA NÃO É APENAS DOS ESTADUNIDENSES, MAS SIM DE TODOS COCIDADÃOS DO MUNDO INTEIRO QUE SE INDENTIFICARAM COM AS PROPOSTAS POLÍTICAS DE PAZ, DESDE O INÍCIO DA CAMPANHA COM O CANDIDATO DEMOCRATA, SENADOR O OBAMA.

It is sad that there are so many comments from those who call themselves democratic. Democracy is supposed to be for the people. But it seems the meaning of republican and democratic has evolved from the true meanings. Republican was defined in 1854 as against central govenment, anti-slavery and a tough, intervenionist foreign policy. Anymore it is a stumblingblock rather than stepping stones. It divides those who misunderstand the purpose behind it all-Freedom from government suppression. And seperation from church and state is to keep not only the government from suppressing the people with religious rule but also to keep the government from interfering with schools that do teach religion.
I don't believe that going to a one world government and one currency is going to solve anything. I do believe, religiously, that it is going to usher in something unexpected. I don't believe Obama is going to be a bad president. World unity is very inviting and from a humanistic standpoint I would follow it 100%, but my faith, whether anyone choose to believe it or not, in which as an American, I have the freedom to believe, but it's my faith in what I believe about eschatological prophecy
that scares me for not just Americans but for everyone who without question would follow it. People can label me as they please, but the truth of that matter is, they can not judge my soul for concern for people outside of my beliefs. Of course I will be demonized and a label will be put on me as Intolerant, bigotist, but that would be falsely accusing their neighbor.
I wish Barak Obama hope, peace and prosperity and will be praying for him everyday that God will protect him from those who would seek to destroy him and to guide him in the direction God would have us to go to fulfill His purpose.
And yes, I am a republican, but more importantly, AMERICAN.

Belas fotos
beatiful photos,
felicidades ao povo americano !!!!!
Brazil vote Obama !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I just became an American Citizen earlier this year and I feel very greatful to be part of history in this election. I am proud to be an American and proud of our new leader, President-Elect Barack Obama.

You did it! Barack Obama You did it! You made history is so many ways!
Now the world will recognize the greatness that a black man has to offer!
My prayers of strength, endurance and safety are with you as you lead us away from all the mess the last eight years has brought us. You have a MIGHTY job ahead of you, but the greatness that God blessed you with lets me know without a shadow of a doubt that you are the Right Man For The Job! God Bless you and your wonderful family. (PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN)

As a Brit watching the results come in on our TV (it was on all our major networks too :) ) all I can say is I cried too with his supporters (I'm a bloke, I've never even cried on our own election nights).

I remember the fear and the horror that filled my fellow students that dark morning in November 2000 and the sense of disbelief in November 2004. It was like watching a close friend tear themselves apart through fear and paranoia.

But wow, When America fights back she does it in style. I'm sure Obama will make mistakes, all great leaders do, even the Churchill's and FDR's of the world. He has given the world and I think America the most precise gift of all. HOPE. We can actually hope that world will be better place now. Where there is hope there is faith, where there is faith there is the will and where there is the will we can find a way.

This is what Mr. Obama's win means to me.
I came to this country from the Philippines on my first birthday 40 years ago, so even if I wanted to I could not run for president of the United States. But now I have a 6-year-old daughter. This opens a door just a little wider for my daughter, and other females like her, if some day she decides to run for the highest office in the land.
I've seen the best and the worst that this land has to offer, and this presidential election ranks as one of the best. Remember: "We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal." God speed Barack Obama! My family and friends support you.

On June 16, 1858, more than 1,000 Republican delegates met in the Springfield, Illinois, statehouse for the Republican State Convention. At 5 p.m. they chose Abraham Lincoln as their candidate for the U.S. Senate, running against Democrat Stephen A. Douglas. At 8 p.m. Lincoln delivered an address to his Republican colleagues including in his introduction: "A house divided against itself cannot stand," paraphrasing a statement by Jesus in the New Testament.

If we don't stand together as the UNITED States of America we are doomed to repeat history.

It’s been an incredible run! Yet there is more to do. Let’s take care of our President!!

Go to work, go to school, do what ever you do and be the best that you can be, and then do more.

Yes we can!!!!

I love it, incredible!!!!

Are you filled with Hope or Hate? FEAR or LOVE ... ?

"The Doors to Heaven & Hell are Adjacent and Identical"
-- Nikos Kazanzakis

The recurring image of the rolled-up sleeves is very symbolic. His message to America is "Time to get to work," and even his shirt agrees!

I feel that as a minority/middle class, we now have a second chance in life. Lifted up our hearts, our self esteem and our spirits

OBAMA, O JOVEM VETERANO DA PAZ TRÁS ESPERANÇA DE PACIFICAÇÃO DO NO MUNDO.
O mundo volta a ter esperança de dias melhores e com mais PAZ intenacional, com a conquista, à Casa Branca, 04/11/ 08, do jovem veterano pacifista obama, que juntos a outros lideres e cocidadãos pacíficos do Planeta estarão UNIDOS pela pacificação na Terra, em todos sentidos políticos e sociais. Menos guerra, mais diálogo. Eu,José Ramos, 47, e minhas duas sobrinhas Gislene, 12 anos, e Gisele,3 anos e meio,, ESTAMOS COMEMORANDO esta conquista... Viva a Paz"

What he will change? I’m sure that in the US the president seems to have all the power, but actually he’s not so powerful. The internal and external politic has a patch and all the decisions will follow it, regardless the president’s party.

What I want to say is that behind the scene are people that have a lot of power of decision and those people are not changed when a new president is coming.

i totally support barack obama all the way and i am looking forward for change and you better believe that we are going to get it...GOOD JOB OBAMA

"If God Be For Us, Who Can Be Against Us???????????

My entire university has cheered and celebrated when it heard the news... and heck were Canadians! I am so proud of the United States right now! Bush was a true, sorry joke for all of humanity... but now I actually envie your leader!

I am a biracial person, 1/2 black . 1/2 white, I am proud of both parents and I dont pick what color I am..It picked me. I am neither more black than white, nor more white then black. Obama said that he was a biracial child growing up in the 60s and 70s and he knows about the hardship of discrimination. So do I , So why does the media and Obama pick what color he is? I take it he is more for his fathers heritage than his mothers. His father sounds like a good role model. Im proud of my color, and thats both black and white not one or the other.

What a feeling!the world just bear withness to history being made ,and i am glad i was part of it.People should not lay back and continue to complaim.It is now clear that if you work hard in America ,you will make it despite your colour ,race or origin.
Wake up people.

A few words to the frustrated/unhappy/biggots... Why don't the move to Alaska instead? I'm sure you'll be quite happy there. We don't need any right-wingers or racists and bluntly put, you're not welcome here.

To the others: congratulations on electing someone that will try to fix the immense damage done, try to heal your country and bring the people together instead of working on ways to divide them further. The world opens its arms in welcoming your country back. Mister Obama has such charisma and intelligence, he seems to be willing to get things done. I wish him, and you, good the very best!

The world is truly thrilled about this decision the US has made. The people have spoken and have had enough of the Bush Administration and appear to have lost trust in the republicans.
Your country is looked at with much scrutiny and hate from all the terrible things Bush has done and said, and now the world is looking at America with different eyes, you should be thanking Obama for this, and expect great things for your future!

This has been the most phenomenal campaigns because Obama is incredible. What a beautiful time in American history!!!

#411.....

Your tears, they sustain me.

I'm from Germany and I congratulate to America and the American people to this amazing election!!! God bless you for your courage, your enthusiasm and your choice. God bless President Obama and give him all the wisdom and power he will need to battle the problems and get a great president for America and a great politician for the world.

All the best to all of you. May the change come. We're proud of you! :-)

What an amazing man Barack Obama is, and what a sobering job he has ahead of him. I am bewildered by the conservatives and their short-sightedness still, after these past 8 devastating years. I have no doubt that if it were possible for George W to have run again against Obama, they would have all voted for him again. How truly sad. When would enough be enough? And when can we stop talking about the color of his skin and just realize what a smart, devoted, capable man he is? I am so thrilled to have this man as our next President. People need to take off their blinders and give him a chance.

Obama: THE BIG MISTAKE.
Just wait and see.

Do you think Obama could start his own party?

Whether Barack accomplish all that he set out to do or not, his achievement as to becoming the first Black President of the United States of America shows that America has changed and is heading into another direction.

Wonderful pics. Pic #12 sums it ALL ............ H O P E

toutes ces photos sont très belles et j'ai l'espoir que Obama sera un très grand président.
Dieu bénisse l'amérique et toutes les nations du monde.

YOU made it! Obama! You are the real American dream!! You changed the history of America. You even melted the hearts of people who are not Americans. We all support you!

I am an African-American. I was taken back by Barack's victory speech. He is evidently already backing off his commitment to change America -saying it may not happen for 4 years. If he does not deliver, and my economic status does not improve, I will regard him as an Uncle Tom as will all the bros in the hood.

Very Nice Very Nice !!!!

I still can't believe that this has happened. Congratulations America, welcome back. The era of extreme right lunacy that prevailed for bush's 8 years is over, stay vigilant, they are still brainwashed.

NOW IT'S TIME TO WORK

NO?

I am so happy for him! I think he will be a great President! I think it's really cool that history has been made and I saw it!!

EN FRANCE, ON EST CONTENT !!!!
ON VOUS SOUHAITE TOUTE LA REUSSITE POSSIBLE !!!

im still crying

this is so beautiful

i love how there is proof that the american dream exists for everyone now!

Tyler,
What a sad sentiment. An Obama presidency brings the renewal of hope to this country. In his acceptance speech he spoke about hope and sacrifice and a dedication to something larger than ourselves. The president might not make the laws in this country but he sets the tone and determines the conversation. We're finally seeing the end of eight years of an executive branch characterized by cynical opportunism, fear mongering, jingoism and blatant partisanship. Let's hope that Obama is true to his words and restores that sense of promise and real democracy that both the US and the world have been craving.

Nice pictures and good shooting.
Thanks.

This guy is going to destroy our economy. Stock market is down 500 points since he was elected. Can you say "lack of confidence"?

Fantastic pictures.................
one countrys dream comes true.. ...............
all the best Obama.

People are missing the whole issue here. It should not be about whether Barack Obama's skin is black or white or whether his religion is Muslim or Hindu, but what Barack Obama can bring to the table. I cannot judge the man from his past or what may be in his future, but we as Americans (real Americans) as we claim the bill and fight for what we believe in. And then we sit and wonder and Ponder why this country is messed up with turmoil and why the "terrorists" take advantage of us bickering amongst overselves when we should be bring joy and peace to one another. When they (the terrorists) see us bickering about skin color and who and what should be preseident then we wonder why they sit back and laugh at us making complete fools of ourselves. It is a good feeling to have the first black African American to be the new Commander in Chief, but we need to watch ourselves with how we conduct ourselves around our children and families at all times if we want to be the americans that Barak Obama wants called time to change. There is a change and that change has come. I am not saying that Barack Obama is the messiah or he can change the world overnight. Rome was not made overnight and Barack Obama was not born in one day. But one thing did happen Barack Obama changed history as we now know it.

I hope that some day we can get over the whole racism thing and try to live as Dr. Martin Luther King stated in his speech Let us as one nation hold hands together and go to schools and churches with one another and stop teaching our children that is ok to hate another for skin color but teach our children to love us just as God place each and every one of us to be his hands and his feet and have love for our fellow brothers and sister until his return when he comes to carry us back with him.

In response to Tyler Smith, message 365, dated November 6, 08 04:37 AM

You are right that we have had a Congress that did not see much change, but we were saddled with a president who would accept only one way -- his way. Now we have a real leader whom we hope and believe will use his intelligence, insight, and persuasive powers to help Congress, not impede it.

The President does have tremendous power to influence changes in laws. He or she can propose legislation, put pressure on members of the House and Senate, and can muster the will of the American people to demand action from their representatives in Washington. And, if all else fails, the presdient still has the power of the veto.

You say that you hope America hasn't done something it regrets. That admonition comes too late. We have already done that. It's called "Bush." Now we hope to undo all the damage that decision allowed

No tengo ganas, ni tiempo, nene, de andar con sonzeras. Arriba...! (Montevideo, Uruguay)

I like photo 21. A great example of how diverse racially Obama's supporters are.

"People are carried away in the hubris and novelty of the racial breakthrough. But wait until the honeymoon is over. We will wake up next to our new ultra-liberal, overly-idealistic, socialist president and his cronies, as unprepared and ill-equipped to handle today's challenges as Bush.

It's a bittersweet day."

"Realist" You are unbelievable! You considered Bush equipped? Obviously you believe that a man who doesn't even have a command of the English language, should have a command over the most powerful nation in the world. Let us not forget that Bush hadn't even left the country until his presidency! Also, I believe if you look up "cronies" in the dictionary you'll probably find pictures of Dick Cheney, Karl Rove just to name two!

And finally, idealism is a good thing. Being idealistic is what makes America great-- it's what makes the American dream!

God is faithful, there's more yet to come, The almighty has answered our prayers, This is the time for a change in America we have all waited to happen, I know others are negative and sad but God's proved himself.

I praise God for our answered prayers ,

"Facing the rising sun, of our new day begun. Let us march on, till victory is won."

To comment number 395. Thank you so much. We need to come together in a spirit of cooperation now, more than ever. My hope is that your sentiment will begin to spread through the 56 million Americans who voted for John McCain. It is together that we can move forward. If we remain divided, vengeful, and hateful, we will fail.

I'm so proud of him - I'm proud to be an American today! I'm proud to have been apart of this historic moment. What a beautiful time to be alive..... in America! To the person that says "He wears alot of blue", I think it seems like he wears a lot of blue because he may not have a lot of different suits. It looks like maybe he has a small wardrobe of blue suits and ties. He seems like he doesn't do a lot of wasteful spending....which is great! Or maybe it's just his favorite color!

We dont have to hope for the best to come, no more.. because the best has arrived. Obama we believe in you, congratulations!!!!!

Barack, you really are the light of the world. Change is good for a change. We hope gangsterism has gone for good. Lead the world dynamically and bring Africa out of the woods. Congratulations!

Amazing photos. They are just inspiring. For the first time, I look to the future with hope.

@ Keith #395>

Thank you for your positive attitude. That is the meanor that this great country needs to bounce back and regain the respect of the world! Well said my friend.

Absolutely amazing photography. I could not be happier. What a wonderful time to be an American! Congratulations, President Obama!

i wish we will also have one like obama in nigeria.

This was destined to be. My prayers are with President Obama and his family and my country. May God be with us all.

Obama made History!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

at #424 If you look at the numbers not all African-Americans voted for Obama and not all African-Americans voted for Obama simply because he is Black. I am an African-American female and was a Hilary supporter becuase I believed it was time for change as well for the women in our country to step up and have a place in the whitehouse (this clearly wasn't represented by the selection of Palin on the GOP ticket). I find it a discrase and disrespectful that you assume that African-Americans are not intelligent enough to choose a candidate based on his qualifications and only vote based on one's skin color. If anything Obama is
representative of the many struggles that not only African-Americans (especially males) have gone through, but most Americans in general. To say that Whites are the only ones responsible for making him the man he is, is shameful. Had Hilary been in the place of Obama and clearly would have captured the Black vote, would your opinion be the same. Americans of all races didn't elect John McCain for a reason. Regardless of whether or not an African-American held the Democratic nomination, this was the time for Democrats to regain their place in the Washington. Obama is an incredible human being and people around the world are excited for him to be the new face of America.

#307 and #309 brought me back to the reality that this country will always be vulnerable to "Homegrown Terrorists", because that's what they are or can become. The hate is just as deep as Bin Laden's, they just happen to live here. People like that who are able to spread the hate and brainwash others don't deserve to be alive, let alone live in our country. They ruin our country.

The RACISTS like # 307 and # 309, and some John guy I overheard say the other day that he HATES (not disagrees with) Barack Obama are perfect examples of why we have to pray that our country moves in the right direction quickly.

I trust that Obama will do a phenomenal in his term prompting reelection. Hopefully that will show people with even 1% of whatever it is that #307 and #309 feel, just how ignorant they are.

Fantastic pictures! and I am glad they say so much, because I am getting tired of reading how a "black" man in the Whitehouse is going to fix all the "black" problems. I voted for Obama because he seems very sincere, he is not stupid, but wise enough to look for help when he needs it, because I thought his ideas and vision were better than Mr McCains. I hope that President Elect Obama sees himself first as an American, then as a Man, a father, a husband, a leader, and a respresentative / defender of this country, and very lastly as black. I hope we don't turn this beautiful victory into some sort of ugly retaliation for the sins of the past.

I have never heard so much empty, substanceless emotion. Much like Obama's speeches. I also have HOPE. I HOPE that he doesn't drive our economy over a cliff.

Obama promised to bring America together. So what was his first act? He asked Rahm Emanuel to be the White House Chief of Staff. Emanuel is an ascerbic, insulting attack dog. He comes out of the Chicago school of dirty politics. So Obama managed to break his first promise in less than 24 hours after being elected. That is probably a record.

And Obama set another record on the first day after his election. The stock market lost nearly 500 points. That is the most that the market has ever gone down on the day after a presidential election. Obviously he is inspiring confidence. In the middle of the second day after his election, the market is already down another 300 points. Over a trillion dollars of wealth has been lost since his victory speech.

It is poetic justice that Obama will have to deal with the economic failure that his strong support of the sub-prime loan industry as well as his support for the corrupt management of Fannie May and Freddy Mac, have brought on. The law firm that Obama once worked for actually sued mortgage companies that failed to give subprime loans. Now he will reap the rewards of those actions.

They say attitude reflects leadership. I believe the Leadership he will bring in his administration will change the attitude of the masses and the world will once again see the United States of America for the great nation it is. I feel blessed for having lived this historic event and look foward to the change I believe is coming. God Bless our President! And God Bless our great nation.

CONGRATULATIONS I just want to say i'm so happy Barack Obama was elected President HISTORY has been mad.

Obama is a world changing figure whose vision, leadership and management style are a culmination of the world's greatest leaders. Obama evokes emotions in people that we not seen since JFK. As he leads our great Nation, Obama will also have a healing impact on so many other nations of the world. God Bless Obama and his family I pray that the Secret Service continue to protect and defend him!

uhh, nice photos.

Let us not forget in the wake of this historic occasion that we now have a president who, at least in the second half of his campaign for the White House, has supported not ending but rather reallocating our current war resources to those of another existing war and suggested in the debates that he would not be opposed to invading yet another country (Pakistan). He voted for the Patriot Act and voted for FISA protection for AT&T et al. Let's all hold our new president accountable for ensuring civil liberties and an end to American imperialism, and let's not be deterred from that goal by this watershed moment, beautiful as it may be.

Wow. Creepy.

We voted for Obama, yes, and now Mr. President, get to work and do everything you promised! Do not make us feel regret!

Excellent pictures!! Thanks for sharing!! Number 32 seems a casual family moment.

Great images and story line. McCain probably has some too. It was a great campaign and in our household we are excited about a new perspective and hope and pray things turn around. The basketball image. Duhon must be his teammate!

I am so happy to read the positive comments from other countries, especially Canada and France (to which I swore I would have fled had the Republicans maintained the White House). Thank you for your support and congratulations!

I was 13 when I read in the newspaper about Rosa Parks' protest. I was 18 when I arrived at Ft. Gordon Georgia as a young soldier. In the town of Agusta I visited a new library. The date-stone was 1960. There were colored and white rest rooms and drinking fountains throughout this new building, just as there were at the railroad and bus stations. After the army I joined civil rights protests and joined the Congress of Racial Equality. I've also voted in every election.

We as a people have come a long way in the past 50 years and I'm glad I lived long enough to see Barack Obama be elected the leader of our country.

Really??? Some are saying today's bad stock market is because of Obama. Really??? Hey, look to the current administration for the blame on that one. Obama isn't even the president yet. "W" stands for Worst President Ever.

By the way, great photos. What a beautiful family.

I'm afraid this going to be Jimmy Carter all over again.

Young people do not remember Iran holding our embassy staff hostage for over 2 years. Only when Reagan was elected did they release them.

Independent

Finally, eight very long years have ended.
Hail the new chief!

I THINK PEOPLE SHOULD REPLAY THE MCCAIN'S CONCESSION SPEECH ON TUESDAY NIGHT. HE GOT IT RIGHT!!!!!

I am happy and encouraged that the greater portion of this country united in a single cause; restoration of our belief in this great nation, and it's general good will toward righting wrongs, and stepping forward bodly toward a future with hope. America has and continues to be a land of opportunity for EVERYONE! Amen, and may he truly be the great hope and deliverer this country needs. Candidates all talk the talk. Let's pray he walks the walk. I have confidences he will. Congratulations, Mr. Obama-Mr. President.

Hello Americans!

Congrats on the election results. I hope your country takes a much needed upturn. Oh, and to all you "I'm so angry I'm gonna move to Canada" folks, we don't want you. At all. Go to Mexico or something, we don't need bigots here. We've reached our quota or something.

Yay America! We finally elected a President who is willing to go PAST the restraints of the Constitution! We've elected a President that the leaders of terrorist nations agree with! We've elected a President with a history of trying to destroy the 2nd Amendment! We've elected a President who's campaign manager has, on record, threatened media outlets with losing their lisences for running ads they didn't like. We've elected a President with a record of being anti-first amendment! Go America!

Oh, and your pictures are beautiful. Really.

These pictures are breath takingly beautiful!!! They really capture the magnitude of the change that has happened in America. The crowds are so vast and so diverse. This is the America of the future only it's here today. We will be more united as the human race and not let our differences put a wedge between us. These pictures symbolize the beauty of our differences and celebrates our commonalities.
I am so proud to be and American!!!!!!

I am so happy for our new voice. We middle classmen have been slient for so long. I thank the most high GOD who made it possible for change. He saw his children being treated wrong. He made this world in 6 days and say this is good. Now he has bless us with a voice through President Barack Obama. I pray that this man who won the worlds heart keep his word to the American people. Please help me pray for the safety of Obama and his family. Yes we did it!!!

Messenger # 365- get a life, there is nothing you can do about the situation. He was the best candidate for the position and he prevailed over the other lesser- qualified individuals. He, President- Elect, Barack Obama, cannot, I repeat, cannot, do any worse than the president that was just in office for the past 2 terms...so, deal w/ it or find you another country to represent.

Congrats Barack and I KNOW you will do well! It was time for change and change has come! God bless! ;)

to #471 Darnell...Obama is not a magician nor does he does not hold any superhero powers. if you had listened correctly to his speech, he said we may not be able to see change within the first year, or even in the first term-he's not backing off from any committment. do you really think he's going to be able to correct 8 years of mistakes in four years or less? he's promised to do the best he can while in office, and I'm going to hold him to that. if you need your economic status to improve, you need to make that change for yourself for now because all of us are trying to get by, not just you. Let the man do his thing, and put that Uncle Tom bullsh*t to rest.

For the first time in my life I was able to vote. I have been an active duty member of the United States Air Force for two years, but this is my first time being able to vote. And with so much going on in the country, a country I was born and raised in, I can finally say I am HAPPY to serve my country. Because I am not serving it nor are my brothers and sisters serving for a silly mans reasons. Yes he is/was my commander and cheif, but that does not mean I have respected his policy or his leadership over the past years. Even the most racist of people need to realize that now is not the time for hatred. Now is the time as when 9/11 occured, to join together and oatch together or broken country. For if we do not do it who will? I respect John McCain he is a man who has served his country and should be respected for that. But he is from a time and an era that cannot continue. We connot base our leadership simply because of who this mans family is. and that he was a war hero. When it comes down to who has done things to help our contry for the better he is simply NOT qualified. So like i said people. I just hope that even with the doubts that you may have, that you will give this man a chance to prove himself, and to give him the opportunity to help this country and the world. We are the worlds most powerful nation and we are on our knees right now in shame. Lets give him the chance to bring us up with our heads heald high like we used to stand, and then once qwe help purselves we will be able to lend a hand to those who want our help! Obama stands for Change something he belives can do, and so should we/. No matter how you feel about the man himself, you should give him the chance to help better this country. We once judge a president by what he did as a man and not what he did for our country, and he was one of the best presidents this country has seen in a long time. Lets not do that again!

And to #419, regardless of how you may feel, he IS YOUR PRESIDENT, just like all the other citizens of the continental U.S.A...you may not like it, but you will DEAL w/ it b/c he isn't going ANYWHERE, sweetie! Now, you have a great day and think on that!

"America has gone to hell in a handbasket with bows, lace and all the rick rack it could find. I AM ASHAMED OF MY COUNTRY!!!! "

-Bree Lynn Post 419

Well, Bree, welcome to my world for the past eight years!! The only thing you should be ashamed of is yourself.

OK America we like you again. Now don't screw it up this time.

I am so full of HOPE for America because of a man named Obama. He exzudes confidence, caring, hope for change in this crazy world. I really don't ever feeling so touched and PROUD of being an American as I am at this time in history. I feel President Elec Obama is for ALL people, regardless of race, religion, backgroud. I am proud to say he is going to be my President . I don't think I have ever said or thought that in my 57 years. Thank you for being the man you are and please never change! Stay true to yourself for me and our country. Thank you!!

Congratulations Mr. President. I got very emotional watching the news on November 4th, and I am emotional now looking at these pictures ,that a good friend of mine, shared with me. I cried that night,. I saw the same faces I saw 35cyears ago , when we chose my president at those times in Chile,, Salvador Allende, the country whereI was ,and where I grew up.The same happiness, the same hope.
Thanks Mr.Barack Obama. I wish you my best. I hope they will let you do your time.
I salute you.

This is why I became a citizen to vote for Obama:

Katrina - Emergency Management Failure and wastages
Economy - Plunge in the dollar due to massive fiscal debt from large tax cuts with no reduction in government spending.
Economy – Lack of controls allowing outrageous profits for questionable decisions.
Credit Crunch - Allowing lending to go uncontrolled
Oil Prices - Allowing speculation to go uncontrolled
Drilling - Failure to remove limitations
Iraq - Why did we do it?
Afghanistan - Allowing things to relax too much in the late stages
North Korea - Allowing them to build reactors to make bombs
Environment - Who gives a crap attitude.
Human Rights - Torture! Guantanamo!
Energy - Too little too late for Alternative Energy
Energy Investment - we should be building nuclear power plants
Stem Cell Research Funding - This should have got public funding
Health Care - Out of control prices from drug companies. Different treatment prices for different people
Education - More available to the rich. No limits on tuition increases. Why should a college student graduate with $50,000 debt?

#411, doesn't really matter what you think now does it? Because the 44th president of the United States is an African American. Does it make you uncomfortable? Would you like to leave the country? Well welcome to how I and millions of others have felt for the LAST EIGHT YEARS. And by the way, go ahead and get out of our country. It should be obvious by now that we don't need your backwoods narrow minded thinking any longer. Just so you know, I am a second generation English and German American, my skin is so pale it blinds people,and I finally am proud to be an American.

For comment #424. You are so ignorant. Look at what you just typed.....you stated that Obama is just as much white as he is black....well if we "black people" voted for him, we voted for the black and white. What does that say about you?

I am so Proud.

At this point and time in my life, I am very proud to be an American!! May God Bless our great nation's president, Mr. Barack Obama and his family, keep them safe and may our nation see unity in all things, for all color and ethnic origins as a people united under "Yes, we can!!"

I cannot tell you how deeply I feel about this great change!!

Posted by Obama hater Bergeron luva:
Obviously your parents can afford it. It seems to me they need something else to spend all their money in. You already seem "spolied rotten" enough!

Great collection of photographs. Now, let's see if he lives up to the hype. Walking on water is a pretty tough trick to pull off.

"This guy is going to destroy our economy. Stock market is down 500 points since he was elected. Can you say "lack of confidence"?"

Jerome:
...the market was sinking before the election, you think overnight the man who hasn't even yet become president is responsible for the drop? Maybe you think the same policies of all for corporations, extreme de-regulation, cowboy capitalism for the extremely wealthy is what we still need? Wake up man...

The stock market has shown the lack of wisdom of the 52% that elected Barack Hussain Obama . The pilgrams try socialism in thier first year in the new world out of 111 people 88 died , the next year they all got 1 acre of land to do as they pleased and thats how we got Thanksgiving. They thrived under a free market system !!! The last president that raised taxes during a recesion was Hoover in 1932 and he basically kicked off the great depression. Oil will be at 140 to160 dollars a barrel if congress repeals off-shore drilling at the same time Obama is going to cripple the coal industry sending electric rates through the roof . Hold on we will see 10% umemployment within the first year!!!

The photo of a huge Obama rally in St. Louis on October 18 says it all. Mr. Obama: you have a great number of people on your side and we share your views on where this country needs to go. America (and even more so, the world) wanted and recieved a president elect 180 degrees different from the current horrid and unqualified president. January 20 can’t come quick enough to see his exit. We all need to keep up hope and assist where we can to help undo the many destructive policies Buch and his cronies implimented since he seize the Whitehouse in 2001.

barack is the man. i believe he's a good, honest man. but i hope he's not a puppet of big business and the illuminati. also i hope his first order of business is to put the bush adminstration on trial for breaking the laws (i.e. torture, secret prisons with no habeas corpus, wiretapping american phonelines without warrants), war crimes and crimes against humanity (9/11 was an inside job to create an enemy in order to wage the war on terror- a profit making scheme for cheney and friends).

@ 471 (and all the people who believe that if immediate change doesn't happen Obama will have gone back on his word) -- how sad. It's called realism, something this country hasn't had in a very long time. Maybe part of the problem is that people are willing to throw their hat in the ring and turn their back on things when the don't get their way. This country didn't get where it is today (good or bad) overnight and the problems it is currently facing will take a long time and a lot of effort to repair. Oh, yeah, and tell the "bros in the hood" that they might want to consider change too -- it can't always come from the top.

not more to add

It was through God grace that we all cab see this day. To God be the glory, may God bless him, his family, his duty to A,merican and Bless the United State of American.

#539, What planet are you living on? It aint earth, baby, because you've brought up some stuff that wasn't even proposed by Barack Obama. Oh, you must be a Bush relative. Say "hi" to the family and tell them not to let the immense global recession hit them on the ass on the way out.

Oh, and nice pictures!

McCain is a great senator. Good luck to him there.

We are one people and there is no better way to show our unity then to have elected a man with such a diverse backround. I am your average white middle class woman. I am aware of the true meaning of our country and it is The Melting Pot. It is not a Nascar racetrack.

"The only thing to fear is fear itself." We shall never be afraid again. Thank you President Barack Obama for not being afraid! The people are behind you.

It is no longer news that with the election of Barack Obama as the next President of American, the American people have sent a clear and unambiguous message across to the rest of the world-the great Values of Democracy are within the reach of any country that craves for freedom. There are daunting challenges, uphill job to be done, both on the national scene and in the entire world. The tasks ahead are enormous, the climbs will the challenging, but I have no doubts that Mr. Obama possesses the right credentials to ride the American people through the storm. There are panics everywhere, with a lot of people having lost faith and hope. Americans are in need of capable leader that would breathe confidence back into the system. This is what I find amazing in their choice in this election. The President-Elect, Barack Obama’s got the charisma, he’s persuasive, he’s intelligent and he is focused. Americans couldn’t have made a better choice at this time in history. I congratulate the American people. You did it. Truly, Change has come to the World.

To all of you outside of the United States:African Americans have held major govenrmental posts in the United States;they have been mayors of major cities;they have been senators;they have been secretary of state;now we have an African American president. This is not a major shift in race relations. We have been making strides for years.

Does the fact that we do not have had a woman president yet mean we are inferior in the way we treat women?

those are some hot photos

As long as there are pieces of ignorant white trash in the world they will be against Barak Obama. He gives us HOPE for CHANGE, nothing more or less, and I am willing to give him that opportunity other than 4 more years of the same policies that have made our country the laughing stock of the world. The man hasn't even been sworn in yet, people, put your racist feeling aside and let him try to clean up the mess YOUR President has made!

YES....
WE CAN OBAMA...
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!

No. 437: You comment that the majority of voters were "young and inexperienced" and that somehow the election was won on the backs of ignorant or uninformed voters. First of all, so what? The last time I checked, any 18 y.o. citizen could vote. Perhaps we should wind back the clock 150 years and let only white male property owners vote? Second, look at an electoral map to see where large blocks of McCain's support comes from: Tennessee, West Virginia, Arkansas, Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Texas, Georgia, South Carolina. Then look and see where the lowest rates are for adult literacy and college graduates. (As a South Carolina native, I know first-hand.) Starting to see a pattern here?

Congratulations to President Obama!!

He has for sure made a history and made everyone Proud.

Regards,

Chaya

I am thrilled and proud to be an American again. This energy should have should galvanize everyone, from individuals like me to the grass roots community groups to more bigger organizations to chip in to help us--we who call ourselves "Americans"--to do our part to restore our country to greatness. He was being realistic when he said he may not be able to change things in just 1 term. I can accept that. If everyone gets involved, however, we can achieve great things.

THANKS... THANKS... THANKS..... THANKS..... THANKS.... THANKS..... THANKS !!!!!!

First of all , Congratulations to Obama and his family. The pics were fantastic.
Secondly, I wish that people would stop being so racist, and realize that this moment was the plan of God. We are all, for the purpose of God. If God did not intend for Obama to be our Elect President at this present time he would not be.
For those who keep bringing up race, you obviously dont understand numbers or the people of America. Blacks are the Minority of this country, so with that said, Obama would not be our Elect President if whites, hispanics, asians, and other nationalities had not voted. God Bless Obama and his family. God Bless America.
Quazimu

Oh my stars, I was raised in a 100% white town, attended a 100% white public school, had racist parents, and was surrounded by the white superiorism attitude from birth to high school graduation. Guess what? I never understood the point and refuse to acknowlege any differences in any group of people based on their exterior.

If we, as a people, fail to progress then we shall fail as a people.

When I hear folks like 410, 411, and 419 (there are more, of course) carry on in such a manner I am embarrassed for them and wonder how in the heck they can still harbor these attitudes in the 21st century. Seriously, what are you afraid of? Are you that insecure? Is your whiteness really that threatened? Really?

For all of you who refuse to accept and/or support your new president...you are acting like spoiled children. Do you need a time-out? Seriously, grow up. Try to think past your own selfish, petty opinions and see the big picture. It's a beautiful sight.

"We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union"... I would remind each of you that Americans of ALL colors fight side by side, placing their own lives in harm's way, to protect our country and defend our freedom.

We are all God's children.

A good friend of mine, Ronald Lucas suggested that the greatest legacy of George Bush might be that he inadvertently helped to elect the "first African American President of the United States of America"..

For the first time I can say that I am proud of my country. Living as a white American with all the hate going back and forth has been hard to swallow, and I'm proud to have lived to see this moment in history. Obama is THE MAN for the job that needs to be done here, and the American people have proven that the majority of us have broken the chains that were created in the past and have come together and voted to bring about the change we've needed for so long! Bye Bye Bush! You are a criminal, a war monger, a liar, and I hope this beautiful moment in history... this change we need (Obama) can start to repair the damage you have done to America!

After eight years of a terrible government, finally America got it right. Congratulations.

This fills my heart with Joy; I took notice of Obama after the 2004 speech; and I was always attentive of his moves in the Senate.
This type of leader, smart, persistent organized and competent is what we need.
Americans, it is time to rise again as one nation; let's get to work for a better life; for our children and grandchildren.
He will make mistakes as we all do; but if we just believe that we can overcome our fears and problems; we will sustain a prosperity that it will be hard to achieve at first; but that is coming for all of us.
It is a new era when we are all one race and one creed AMERICANS!!!

"459.A few words to the frustrated/unhappy/biggots... Why don't the move to Alaska instead? I'm sure you'll be quite happy there. We don't need any right-wingers or racists and bluntly put, you're not welcome here."

Posted by canada_no_home_for_frustrated November 6, 08 11:01 AM

We dont want them here either ~ Alaska is notorius for supporting their local people not matter how insane the choice may seem but at least a third of us voted for Barack Obama (myself included) so dont send those closed minded neanderthals our way!

Although I was not for Obama in this election I think his victory shows that this country has moved out of it's dark shadows of slavery and segregation and for that I am proud. Hopefully the results of this election will show people that although racial issues and hatred exist in this country they are a product of the ignorant minority not the reasonable majority. I hope that Obama can do the things that his supporters believe he can and restore our standing as that shining beacon on a hill for the rest of the world. God bless the U.S.A..

well american i am lumbee indian and i vote obama i think sometime people are said thing that are not right but the person that said something about mexico well my family indian and mexico andwe were here fist you need to check you self i am very proud of my family and i am very proud of my tribe

What a Great Victory! One for all people in the United States and around the world. People in other countries can see how wonderful this is, so why are there still some in the United States of America who cannot see the good in this victory?

Change is here! A time for all people to unite. Thank GOD and Thanks America for saying yes to Obama.
I am glad he had the strength and courage to go to the mountain top.

Eneryone wanted the change, well it's coming (just don't think it is quite what everyone expected). I have already heard from several small business owners with this new tax that will affect their profits is rolling down to there employee's and tenants, Yeah we may get a tax break but do you honestly think that when these larger coroporation that will endure these tax increases aren't going to roll that down to the consumer and their employee's (you and I). You will see them matching less on your 401k, more of your insurance premium coming out of your check every month and mechandise going up. I hope like hell Obama proves me wrong but all I see right now is a well spoke individual that has pulled the wool over everyone's eyes.

The pictures are great1 I look forward to an Obama presidency but don't forget that a large number of voters that voted against Obama did so on certain issues and does not make them un-American.

Issues like the right to life for unborn children. We have the right to LIFE, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Bet my post does not make it past the moderator. If it does I'm shocked.

The job inherited by the President Elect Obama is daunting. He is an awesome leader who has the ability to bring millions of diverse people together in harmony. Darnell stated that Barack was already "backing" down on his promises to the people of this great country. Darnell, believe you me, President Elect Obama is going to work tirelessly for this country and for you. He will achieve his goals but he wants you to understand it will not happen overnight because as you know, our country is in utter chaos -- from the gas crisis to the economic crisis. He is asking you to be patient and not give up. George W. Bush took a government with a surplus and turned it into this mess we have now. It is up to Barack and his government to turn this around. Give him some time -- it will happen.

Well done I WISH our country South Africa (Cape Town).could do the same and have somone like him in charge, what a differece it would make!

Czarno to widze ^^

I am so overwhelmeld with the love and pride flowing through America right now. I am an black women and wanted to share pride and love with all my fellow Americans of every race and ethnic background. Yes we can! all join at the table of botherhood. And for our friends abroad we vow to do our best to change or expose those biggots who treaten the NEW AMERICA.

Peace and Blessing to America and our friends of the world.
BTW, Great pics!

I just want to say that, Yes I am happy for our President Elect as we all should be. The past 8 yrs has put our nation into such economic turmoil and a constant state of fear of the unknown that it's any wonder that the drug companies have been cranking out all these different antidepressants. President Elect Obama and his soon to be pick White House Staff will no doubt have their hands full in the coming years. BUT please do not expect him to preform miracles, to right all of our country's wrongs over night. It can not be done that way, it's going to take time. I guess all I'm saying is give Obama the time he needs to at least make a dent in the mess that he is walking into.

wow. boston.com is the best. the BEST.

Excellent collection of photos. I think he reflects the hopes of all Americans (and the World) to lead them out of the current financial crisis and put America back on the right path again. This kind of emotional outpouring for an American President has only happened once before in modern times, and that was John F. Kennedy.

Amazing. YES WE DID!

Congratulations, to our new presedent mr Obama may God guide you, protect you and watches over you and your family , you will continue to be in my prays. all my family came out to support you. God bless.

The American people lend their support to President-Elect Obama. We won't forget the struggles of the last 8 years and we know it's going to take an enormous amount of work on everyone's part to get our country on its feet again. The election of Obama gives us hope for a better tomorrow and a prosperous future. Just to know that soon we won't be burdened with the weight of the fear of the Bush years makes so many of us want to strive and achieve what yesterday seemed impossible. We're counting on you, President Obama. We know you can do it and we're ready to pitch in.

Talk about organizing a community!

It is absolutely incredible that one person can bring together millions and millions of people into one great community with a common vision. Never before have I had such pride in my country and my fellow Americans. What a celebration for and of us all!

Let's just keep the momentum up. The change has only just begun and it will take all of us working together to make it happen!

Obama 2012!

A W S O . AAAWWWWWSSSSSOOOOOMMMMM

Congrats! It is amazing to have a real person in the White House. What a huge change for America. I am so proud to be American at this moment. We need change and hope, it is obvious that you have uplifted the dreams of what being American is all about. Thank you! Thank you for caring.

We did it....... We can't stand for another 4 years of the last 8 years. America made the best choice. All you MCain supports....Obama is you president too. YES WE CAN

U Rock Obama , we need more leaders like you in every nation, May GOD Bless U and your family abundantly!!
U r the first leader ever im impressed with, the way you expressed things in victory speech is truly amazing.
May be its GOD's will for you to become a prez of USA.

The religious right touts themselves as this conservative, holier than thou, bible thumping, Jesus loving group.

What would Jesus do? Reject a person because of his differences? Hate a person because he looks different than him?

If you can't lose with dignity, move past the hurt and jump in and try to help out, then Jesus can't help you. Maybe you're just the kind of person who isn't happy unless you're bitching about something. Believe me, I know the type.

Beautiful Photography.

I am so proud of our country to finally take a stand and REALLY do the right thing and vote for the right reasons! I pray for this man as he carries a heavy load and it will take time, hard work and patience from the citizens, but I truly believe that Obama will prove to be even greater than he already is now 100 years from now.

I am so so proud and Yes Yes WE DID!!!

It's sad to see so many people make this out to be about skin color. This is why we have problems with diversity. We should all be able to see a man, not just a color and stand behind him now that he is OUR president. #549 states it well.
I also see many people saying they are finally happy to be an American now. Well I'm happy to say I've always been a proud American, things can't always be the greatest of times there is always going to be pitfalls to work through. As a true proud American I don't pick the times I want to be called American, I will be till I die.

WWWAAAAAAAHHHOUUUU!!!

This is the moment not only Afrcan American was waitng for but all races of the United States and the whole World. It is a great day for everyone. As a Somali citizen, I am happy and grateful to congratulate the elected president of the United states of America, His Excellence, President Brack Obama.
What I am expecting to see from his adminstration is to unify the entire world peacefuly in general, and in particulary to end Washington's See and Wait policy on Somalia. We as Somalis looking forward to see Mr. Brack Obama to stand our shoulder and to help us to overcome the difficulties of the Civil War we faced for the last 18 years. We want to stand our feet once again as a Nation. The Transitional Federal Government in Somalia want your assistance.

"Lord, we ain't what we want to be; we ain't what we ought to be; we ain't what we're going to be, but, thank God, we ain't what we were."

We have reclaimed our country from those who would loot it to become rich and from those who would destroy it to impose their own ideology.

To commentor #457...it is quite obvious that you have allowed your being bi-racial confuse you or your parents brought you up in a way that has confused you about your identity. While it may not be right to you, people will perceive you to be "black" based on how you look to them and that is the way you be treated by them as a result of their perception. Barack Obama is a BLACK MAN because that is what he is perceived as being by "any" onlooker. Your ethnicity is determined by the father's blood. His father is from Kenya!. Therefore, he is black and the good thing is he "knows" that's what he is and will be perceived as being, & embraces it:)

I find it incredible to read some of the comments that have been posted. The man hasn't been president-elect for 48 hours yet and the criticism and angst has already begun to ramp up. Regardless of whoever was elected into office, it would have been a daunting task for any man or woman to tackle. At least these individuals had the intestinal fortitude to run for office. A lot of people are just sitting on their fourth point of contact and waiting to be told what to do. This is a time for people to get involved more than ever. That's the type of inspiration and task that our new president-elect has challenged us with. It's reminiscint of what of what past great presidents have asked from us in previous times in history. Government is supposed to be fearful of the people that they govern. For the last few years, the people have been fearful of the government that has failed to adequately govern us and get things done. This is a true call to arms for those of us that call ourselves "True Americans". This is not a time for bickering and division. This is a time for us to come together and unite and rekindle the spirit of what the forefathers of our great nation set forth over 200 years ago. It is a time of progression and inclusion. It is a time for us to stand together. If times do not get better, it's not because of the president that was elected, it is a failure of those who chose not to support the ideas and the decisions that were made. It is a failure of we the people to not come together and stand as one.

Somebody mentioned that the stock market has been falling because Obama was elected. The stock market is failing because of the policies that have been in place for the last 8-10 years. The stock market is failing due to the bad news and reports that are on the horizon (unemployment numbers and quarterly earnings). To say that the stock market is in a dismal statee due to one person is ludacrious and baseless. The stock market has been up and down for the last two months.

I hope that this man will be the transformational figure that I feel that he is. The type of individual that can inspire and lead with a clear mind and some intellect. I hope that one day we all look back on these days and laugh at the things some folk were weary of. I believe all these things to be true and will come to pass and that our standing in the world will once again be one of greatness, opportunity and success.

Well... you clowns got your wish. Democrats in the Congress. Democrats in the Senate. Democrats in the White House.

Who ya gonna blame NOW?

BWAHAAA!! I can't wait for the implosion!

(By the way, from an artistic point of view... nice photos. Too bad about the subject matter though.)

Congratulations to all the people who worked so hard to make the Obama Presidency a reality. And to all the skeptics, where have you been the past 8 years.
If you think Obama's going to take the economy over a cliff, wake up. It's already over the cliff. If you voted for George Bush for the last 2 terms and cannot admit that you were wrong. You're the problem.
Most of us want to see a better America, a better world for all God's children. If we work together we can turn this ship around straight away.

You did!
I like most no 32. Do be a father and an president, thats the real & hard job, i think!
Greetings from Germany

Also to #457, the "Center for the Study of Biracial Children acknowledges that an individual with any acknowledged or publicly known African ancestry is considered "Black". So, hopefully this definition helps to clarify why the media has coined him as being the 1st Black President for you - because he simply is "black". It doesn't mean you're ashamed of your white side just because you've embraced your black side. It's just facing "reality" on how the world will see you, which is really how you should see yourself to prevent an identity crisis as a bi-racial child.

This post is in response to that of #424, KMG:
You said: "My problem with this election is that most African American voters voted in an uneducated way. Most of them just voted for the first time."
There is no way that you can know this! It is a wild assumption based on racist bias.
Consider all of the white Americans who voted against Kerry in 2004 because of the utterly false "Swift Boat Campaign". Consider how many bought into the recent email campaigns that claimed that Barack was a closet Muslim, or the one that said he refuses to salute the flag or say the Pledge of Allegiance, all totally false. There is some level of ignorance in all of us if we don't carefully seek out the facts. Clearly you have not done so.

"Plus c'est cha,
plus cha la, meme chose."

the more that things change,
the more they stay the same!

I've sat by for 8 years and watched my elected government do irrevocable harm to our nation and our international reputation. I cowed when Bush said we must fight in Iraq against the UN's judgement. I stood by while he sent our best and brightest to a brutal and unnecessary death. I felt angry, but defeated that Bin Laden wasn't [hasn't been] found. I pretended not to believe that our actions abroad were putting us into even more danger than before 2001. I didn't pay attention while the EPA, FDA and banking oversight committees were gutted. I figured it was a myth that the VP was pulling the strings, the administration was appointing their buddies, funneling money through contractors in Iraq, reaping a profit while our houses went into foreclosure.

I truly wanted to believe that competent people were taking care of us, and this was all beyond my power. I now admit that it was not fear or paranoia, but just plain apathy. I'm not proud of my inaction, but I will learn from my mistakes.

Obama can't possibly fix this all. Republicans, critics, the right wing news machine, and most likely other Democrats are going to try as hard as they can to maintain the status quo and drag him down. But, if this is a government for the people and by the people, WE THE PEOPLE need to get to work.

Obama has inspired me to become more politically and socially active, to volunteer, to get educated and pay attention to what's going on in government, to speak up, to write my congress person, and work as hard as a I can to repair this country. We have a big job ahead of ourselves.

Seriously, if anyone has thoughts on what else the average Jane can do that will honestly affect policy and make a difference, I'm all ears.

Hi Oliver,

I watched by CNN the OBAMA speech in Chigago (in english and in french). Like SARKOZY who is also a lawyer, he can convince because he says exactly what he thinks. You are perfectly right. He is also a great orator.

Friendly speaking, I could not imagine some months ago that USA was ready to choose a colored man as President. Because in a lot of southern states like Texas, Louisiana,... the Republicans can never loose. And since two years, I receive the frequent mail messages from John KERRY requiring donation for the cause !

But I had forgotten the american story and the long way of blacks for obtaining more freedom, also Martin Luther King message which photography was nailed to the wall of my sleeping room in the year 1968. It is a great hope for all countries which are facing the same problem of minorities: blacks, arabics, ... A lot of black people emigrated to Europe these last years and more particularly to France.

USA has given to the whole world not only a proudness but also a lesson of democracy.

I did not recognize in Bush the spirit of America because he did not have a great goal for the country.

OBAMA for sure will mitigate with Iran, Pakistan, Afganistan (many french troops are now fighting in that country beside american GIs). A war can not extend for a long time without creating a strong opposition. In the sixties, De Gaule requested to american troops to leave the country because there was no main reason to maintain an foreign army in an independent state. France had developped the nuclear task force for opposing a strong resistance to an eventual conflict with russians. USA President (Eisenhover?) has never accepted De Gaulle choice.
It has not been the case in Germany. Till the recent destruction of the eastern wall, american troops have occupied Germany, with a strong logistic for the soldiers: cash and carry shops, ....

The 15th of november, I hope that G20 will developp good ideas for smoothing the financial crisis detrimentals.

The disapployment has strongly increased in France and Europe these last 2 months. I lost as many citizens some money with a few shares. By chance, I had finished to reimburse the loan of my appartment some years ago. The interest rate was nevertheless fix and the duration of the loan limited to a 10 years period (as many french people, I hate to take a risk on a too long period).

This evening, the french TV was installed at White House. This special event has been perfectly covered. Everybody is glad of the result because the "french potatoes" have been boycoted a too long time and for completely unjustified reasons. Never forget that Americans were considered in the sixties as salvators for their help during first and second world wars. Also, when I was 10 years old, I never missed a John Wayne western like my mother never missed Ginger Roger and Fred Astaire movies. In 1957, I had learnt from my teacher that skyscrapers were only existing in New York. In America, all is possible, not in old unmoral Europe !

In my opinion, it has been a great miracle to federate these numerous states which compose to-day America and another greater challenge to maintain a strong unity by the time with so many reasons of division: racial segregation, ... In central Europe, they fail dramatically and even provoked a genocide between muslims and christians. Europe faces great difficulties to speak with a single voice (so many different languages). We have to recognize to USA a specific ability to federate, to challenge and to succeed.

For sure that americans are courageous and that America is a great nation, born from nothing, from some poor emigrates which hoped in a better future. It is too late for me to request now a green card, but in another life...

Best Wishes

Claude

I WISH WE WERE ALL BLIND and could only hear his WORDS.

"it's time for a CHANGE"

#471
If your economic status doesn't change you have no one to blame but your self. What President Obama was actually saying is that the problems of this nation may take longer than a year or even a single term(4yrs.) to correct. If you and the bro's can't comprehend that maybe you've not been paying attention to the ills of the US over the past 8 years. Does President Obama have to come to your home and had you a few dollars personally for you to think your economic status has changed. You could learn a lession for him, you are responsible for your own well being. True there are serious problems with our economy, but it is possible to survive, it just takes more than some of you are willing to put forth. It is much easier to blame someone else for your downfalls. No one can change the sorry state our country in a year. That is not realistic, it took more than a year or two to get us in the mess we're in. So for you and the other hommies that can't wait to bash our new President. Go out and make your own history and your own way. Don't think you will suddenly wake up rich because we have a black president ( that won't happen biscuit). Instead try a little harder to manage what you have and plan for not being rich overnight or ever. Don't depend on Obama or anyone else for your survival. Obama is after all just a man and not a God. His powers are limited even as president. Please don't start downing the man before he gets a chance to prove himself. He can only do so much and the rest is up to us to better ourselves and our situations. I truly believe Obama will do his best to make this country great again for all men (black & white). Be patient and supportive ......................................... Rome was not built in night and the US won't be rebuilt over night !!!!
" GOD BLESS AMERICA AND PRESIDENT OBAMA"

To: Constance Deacon post #521

You can still go. Nobody's stopping you. You're a true liberal ... don't get your way - RUN! Someone who truly is an American would never feel that way.
I can remember when that dope, Alec Baldwin, said the same thing 4 years ago. But as a true liberal, did not honor his threat, the jerk is still here making his money here, in the country he threatened to leave.
You all should go. We'll be better off without you!

Of course Obama won this marathon length election. It's hard to beat a Kenyan in a marathon.

It's a glorious morning to awake and find that the last night wasn't a dream. Yeah,! Obama actually won the mandate and would soon be residing @ 1600 Penn ave. On a serious note, the jobs just began America has to expect things to get pretty rough before the phoenix rises again from the ashes. All that America needs to understand is they should take succor in the realization they are in the best hands, if the way he orchestrated his campaign is anything to go by.

People keep stating he's African American, etc. - yes, he had an African father that he saw briefly when he was 10. His mother and grandparents were white. He is full-blooded AMERICAN, born and raised in this country. People, please drop the African - he is an AMERICAN, just like the rest of us. We would be one nation if everyone could forget about skin color and become one. BTW - I'm white, I voted for Pres-Elect Obama and I have hope for the future that this country can turn around. But it will take EVERY AMERICAN WORKING TOGETHER to do it!!!!!!! Don't pin all of your hopes on Pres-Elect Obama.

#558: Great comments. Thank you! Amen!

"one year or one term"...? ROFL! This "messiah" has 180 days, tops to produce something for all the entitlement hands sticking out.

Mid term elections are coming. Demos know it too. Next 4 years are going to be a laugh to watch.

Thanks Obama for raising the standards on running one of the best Elections in my time. The bar has been lifted to higher expectations. It is my prayer that in time you will fill your promise to the American people. My prayers go with you and your family to the White House.

I wish him strength and courage. He can become a great leader, and leads us out of the current crisis. Whether we voted for him, or not, the fact remains that we need him as much as he needs our support...Let's stop the criticism,roll up our sleeves and work for a better tomorrow 2gether!

Finally everyone who's not a white male feels like we matter now. We feel empowered.

You white males are not going to oppress and destroy us or this country any longer!

Hooray for Obama!! My prayers are with him and his family!

#592
We're gonna blame you.

The mountain is oh so steep, but our man is strong and resolute
And we must all get behind him and push like Sisyphus and Hercules
He shall lead the way, but we must tow the line
Yes we can
We're Americans

#605,

I agree with your post. However, there are still many people in this country who still live with that division. It is something that will not and I don't think can never be erased. It is true, we are all Americans (those of us that were born here). I don't like the titles that are attached to our citizenship in this country. I digress though, I too would love for people to be able to forget about skin color when we refer to and identify each other. I believe that this can the beginning of hope, if we so choose to accept the challenge or this can become the beginning of the end, which a small segment of this country actually want. But it is our choice and as you stated, should not be pinned on the hopes of any one person.

HE DID IT!
It finally happened......but the question is will we really see change, not from just him but from people all throughout the United States. There is so much hate in the world because of someone's skin color, their beliefs, and even what someone has. If a black man can finally make it to the white house, then there are a lot of other things that we as black, white, spanish, or whatever else can do to get ahead in this world today. There is so much that I want in life and I that want for my girls to have. With Obama completing his life long dream, I now feel like I will/can be able to get everything that I want and needed accomplished. YOU GO BOY!!!!!!!! (smile)

Thank you America. What a class act! Barack is a refreshing change to the powers of old. I always knew I would see the day of an African American president. I have always had confidence in the intelligent people of America. Not that those who didn't vote for Obama are ignorant, but if they didn't vote for him simply because he is Africa American that is ignorant! Without question. He can't save the world by himself, but he is willing to try. That's worth it to me. America is worth it to me. The world is worth it to me. Obama is all inclusive, intelligent, honest and willing to work toward a common purpose and that is restoring Americas as a leading force in the world, stabalizing the economy, progressive energy sources, promoting self
actualization, a better healthcare system for everyone, a fair tax code for everyone, respect for all people and equal competitive education system for everyone, and America will always
be a place where life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness can come true.
God bless America and every where else! Obama/Biden 2012
Queen

I am proud top be an AMERICAN and am looking forward to having OBAMA serving our great country, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA , for the next four years.

The photo of Barack and Michelle is really touching.

#3 - "Can you hear me now?"

I was born and raised in Kentucky. I know what most people ouside of Kentucky think of us. We are not all racists. We wear shoes. We aren't all uneducated. We don't all live in one room shacks. I've spoken to several people who didn't vote for Obama and not one of them voted against him because of the color of his skin. In the United States we are free to have our own opinions. That's one of the things that's so wonderful about living here. Just because someone has a different opion doesn't make them a racist, an idiot, or a backwoods redneck. It doesn't mean that they should move out of the country either. If you disagree with them then tell us why. Calling them names makes you look uninformed and hateful. That's not what our country needs now. I don't think you would ever hear Obama saying things like that about his fellow Americans.

That being said........GO CATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shana

To the most high God. He has shown the power of prayer. We have a man that is worthy of the name PRESIDENT. We must continue to pray because the road has just gotten hard for him to accomplish all his campaign promises, to be under a microscope by all the people, not just black people and we have to let our shoulders down to give him a place to stand. This is not over, it's just the beginning and we must all stand tall together. We are not going to have 100 years to get the nation right, they are only going to give us an allotment of time. So pray and stay prayed up because we are going to need it now more than ever.

Lets not forget to thank all of the white people who taught your children such good values. Without them and their vote this would not be possible. God is Good!
You reap what you sow.

God has not only blessed America, but he has blessed the whole WORLD.

This was great the task has just begun.President elect Obama still need our help and prayer to get this great country back in shape. God bless him.

The rest of the world might stop laughing at the U.S.A now....for a while.

YAY America! Congrats on electing such a wonderful man to lead your country!
Finally after 8 very long years of having to watch Bush open his mouth and see nothing but air come out this will be a wonderful change!
For the first time in my life I had tears in my eyes after watching President Obama's speech! Now it is time for a change!
OBAMA!!! YES WE CAN!!!!

#610
I am a white male. I risked offending customers of my business as I campaigned for Obama, contributed to his campaign, and posted campign material on my company's vehicle.
I am very proud and know that this very intelligent man whom I had the pleasure of meeting will be a great President.
Your comments are un -called for.

We have waited for a long time for this moment in history, please America let's give this president the chance to prove all that can be done when we as a nation come together for the common cause, Let's give him the opportunity to correct the wrongs that need to be corrected, he is inheriting a nation whose problems can not be corrected in moment but with the help of our people and his cabinet and the continued parayers he will succeed. Please America keep our new president in prayer and believe that he can do what was promised

Regardless of the negative spirited people and all the negative comments,
Mr. Obama still remains "THE PRESIDENT ELECT!" Thank God he was
judged by the contents of his charater and not his color. Thank God for all those who gave all that they had been blessed with, that this day would come to pass.
I feel that we as a people we have finally reveived our "forty acres and a mule"
God Bless America, it appears that we all have come in the "unity of the faith"
Ephesians 4: 13-15

The haters are going to hate, no matter what, enflamed by hate media misinformation. The country has been so dumbed-down that the haters don't know where else to turn for information untinged by the negative. We've got a long haul ahead of us, but there's hope on the horizon no matter how ignorant and hateful some of these commenters are. Unable to feel hope or the realization that they've voted against their own self-interests, I wouldn't want to be them.

Yea, America -- we voted overwhelmingly for someone with the intelligence, common sense, diplomacy, eloquence, elegance and vision it will take to meet the challenges in cleaning up the mess made by the worst administration in the history of our country.

I am so please. But cautious. America, remember, Barak Obama is a backlash against 8 years of Bush. Backlashes, they go both ways. Make sure not to alienate the right too much or the next conservative revolution will be even worse than the last.

When I woke up on Wednesday, I thought of the quote on the Lexington town seal: "What a glorious morning for America"

592,
The W. who was in power for the last 8 years.
AND
If you aren't part of the solution...

Hai, i b r american.

To all the nay-sayers (Excluding the ones who respectfully disagree, they are entitled to their opinions -> key word "respectfully"):
Deal with it. Either leave the country or deal with it. Simple as that. I hardly doubt any of YOU dumbasses could do a better job.

#307, please get a shotgun, shove it up your ass, and fire.
#309, It's just you. Lay off the pot.
Regardless of what people say, the fact of the matter is, he's president. As I said before, either learn to accept it, or gtfo. The last thing this country needs at this time is idiots that spend more time bitching and whining as opposed to being constructive and useful.

The stock market has been in the crapper how long, and just NOW people are pointing it out? Wow.

My not voting for Senator Obama was a matter of party affiliation and nothing else. I am proud of his victory speech and know a lot of benefit can come from the Obama presidency. I only hope that he is the man we want to believe in and not the guy who marinated in Rev. Wright hateful sermons. President Elect Obama, please govern from the middle and honor your words from this wonderful speech.

I don't care who is the president of this country. Yeshua is still incontrol, and he's comming back!!!. So for the real Christains out there getting ready?!! look up your redemsion draw near.... I'm excited!!!!!!

Ha! When I read that one comment that said "all you, "I am so angry - I-am-going-to-Canada-crowd" we don't want you - get out" I got worried...if Barack had LOST, i would have been one of those on-my-way-to-Canada folks!

It is wonderful to see all the positive comments from the majority. Indeed America is a proud country to belong to. I always thought that the U.S. was a great country and a land where anything is possible. GO BARACK

GOD BLESS OBAMA!!!!

I was really surprised by some of the comments made! There are good, God fearing people of all races. The African American has been making strides for many years now. I know what it is like to be discriminated against and I am white, and wasn't born into a poor family. I was labeled and misdiagnosed by so-called "experts" and even betrayed by my own family members. Because I am white, and because of my label; I have been hated and mistreated by blacks who can be just as close minded and racist as some white people. God looks at your heart. Not your color. Forget your past,and forgive those who've wronged you!!

After looking at a picture in the newspaper of Medger Evers in 1966 Mississippi ,crawling across the hiway with a bullet in his back.He was there to help black people register to vote, After looking at Mr. Obama's acceptance speech in Chicago 2008 I feel vindicated for that bullet that entered that man's body , I cried for that man and I also cried on the 4th of November That was a beatuiful night.

I felt so proud to be able to share my voting experience with my 2 and 4 year old. To be collectively a part of history, unity and change.

These are some great shots - regardless of what you think of Obama.

@unenchanted american
Your ignorance is mind-numbing. The early settlers aboard the Mayflower died because THEY FROZE!!! Oh and from scurvy too. Funny but crossing the Atlantic in the 1600's wasn't the same as cruising to Jamaica on Carnival. Socialism had nothing to do with anything you twit. For everyone's benefit, please go back and review your 3rd grade history lessons.

En la foto 11, parece q fuera un Superheroe, de Comics

Ttodo el mundo quiere un cambio, vamos a esperar a ver q pasa, lo que queremos es que se acabe la guerra, y que estados unidos deje de meterce en conflictos q poco les interesa.

Y q la Economia del mundo, comience a salir de la crisis

Thanks America!!!! God bless you and the rest of the world,nothing is impossible as shown by you!!

Hate to break it to ALL OBAMA fans, No matter who ran against the republican party, they were going to win.

Amazing!! It may look different to see a black man leading our country but to me....it's refreshing, Obama is bigger than the color of his skin...he's a great individual and I'm ecstatic that he will be running our country. Next...a woman president (but not Sarah Palin)!!

I've never been more proud to be an American.

THIS WAS WRITTEN IN THE BIBLE "THE MEEK SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH" SO I AM SO GREATFUL THAT GOD HAD IT ALREADY PLANNED.

I DONT HAVE A DOUBT THAT PRESIDENT OBAMA WILL DO A GOOOOOOD JOB AS BEING THE FIRST AFRO AMERICAN PRESIDENT IN THE UNITED STATES

GO PRESIDENT OBAMA GO....YIPEEEEEE

these are the most incredible pictures i have ever seen. thanks for collecting and sharing them. wow!

change is here! obama got next!

Wow! Bigotry and hatred persists... President-elect Obama has a tough job ahead of him. It's always tough cleaning up another's mess. For all who voted Republican, please realize you have maintained the White House 20 of the last 28 years(71% of the time). The deficit was reduced and a surplus was created the 8 years when a Democrat was in the office. For 6 of the last 8 years we had a Republican controlled Congress (75% of the time). We also had a Republican President ...hmm.. what happened to the surplus, the deficit... Who would you choose? Have you not figured out, the plan is wrong. The proof lies in the numbers. Or, is that the plan.............

Congratulations to President-elect Obama!

Congratulations to all the people who worked so hard to make the Obama Presidency a reality. And to all the skeptics, where have you been the past 8 years.
If you think Obama's going to take the economy over a cliff, wake up. It's already over the cliff. If you voted for George Bush for the last 2 terms and cannot admit that you were wrong. You're the problem.
Most of us want to see a better America, a better world for all God's children. If we work together we can turn this ship around straight away.

this is what i have to say today, & the night of the election, i am a 28 year old business owner, & thrilled that my vote amongst many counted! for all the doubters out there this is no fluke, the people spoke, & spoke clearly & loudly! this country needs change, unity, and someone we can all unite behind. i personally believe that we are looking at the next abraham lincoln! yes i said it, i believe this man has the tools to bring this country to a time of prosperity, &comradery amongst our fellow man, that we can all look back on years from now, and say that was a man that made history in so many ways.

I am so happy that this has happened to our nation.

@ 592, who are you speaking of when you say clowns?

How can Obama destroy our economy when we do not have one. Here is why I am happy Obama won.

I voted for Obama. I was so taken by the rejection of racism by our country when Obama won the election.

I must tell you though I went through some tough times growing up in Newark and Plainfield New Jersey, especially the riots in the 60's.

I was in a gang in Plainfield with my girl friend in Newark. Imagine how unracist we as kids really were. She was black and I was white. My gang consisted of 3 blacks 2 puerto ricans and 3 cubans and I believe a chinese guy who never spoke English but could "Bruce Lee" I mean anybody.

We used to kid about me being the only white guy so I was the minority. When Plainfield blew up we literally had no idea why?

I took the gang to Newark to rescue my girl friend and we were stopped as this car got shot up in front of us and ran into the telephone pole. It was on the cover of the "New York Daily News" We were the car behind it.

ABC, NBC, CBS, WNEW, WOR, WABC All the oulets, radio were there the whites were on one side of the street with clubs the blacks on the other with clubs. We all looked at each other going what the F is going on here.

We got to Newark with bullet holes in the door, lower door thank god got my girl sapphire and rode to Plainfield through the back country Plainfield was burning to the ground in 6 hours we stayed at a place who helped us kids out we called Aunt Jehmimah. She just loved us. we got there and a spray of bullets exploded through her curtained picture window. We leaped to the ground. Aunt J we called she came running out screaming and we got chairs against the doors and got the mattresses and tucked her in I asked if she had a gun.

We used , in those days, knives not guns. She had a shot gun she said but she would not have us shootin people I said Aunt J the gun is for you now where the hell is it , We are going out to protect the house.

So Aunt J and Sapphire stood Vigil behind those mattresses and we went out and fought every race color and creed. I have knife wounds all over my body, all my buddies were severely bleeding, fires were burning everywhere and we honestly did not know why. Gun shots kept up for days.

When day light came we boarded up the picture window with peep holes so we could look out. Aunt J and Sapphire tended our wounds I had a knife in the back which my ribs stopped from killing me, Jackson had a his wrist practically severed. Everything else was minor I guess. Aunt J sewed me up with kitchen thread. We were afraid to leave. I could go on but you get the point.
So years go buy some ten years ago I met Tuck a black man he lives in the mountains of Colorado in a small town like myself. We just hit it off for years and one day Tuck said to me..Yo my man meet my son. So I asked him where he was from and he told me plainfield. I said not Jersey he said thats what it is. I said Jesus Tuck I was in the riots he looked at me he said he was a cop in Plainfield. We Just looked at each other and hugged and cried we could not let go. His son did not know what was going on.

Tuck was the one who shot the car in front of us that tried to kill him.

When Obama got elected I felt the exact same emotion. This white boy is crying too.

May this nonsense finally be pushed aside. I do not want to ever hear the subject again.

Let us be one, at last.

great compilation of photographs...good work Alan!! Good presentation today as well. It's too bad the technology at UMass wasn't up to standard on such an important day!

I cannot believe Republicans....you are all tarred with the same brush....you never have anything good to say....always negative. As a Canadian I have followed Barack since I first saw him give the keynote address in 2004. I knew then he was destined for better things. He is a wonderful, sensitive man. John McCain, also a wonderful man who served his country well and I am sure it was disappointing for him. Having said that after 8 years of George W. surely even Republicans need a change. Give the man a chance....he is taking on the worst job in the world and needs your support. Surely the fact the world has rallied like they have says it all. I wish we had him North of the border. Good luck Barack.

Reply to Nick, #531
Why I did not vote for Obama (I voted for Barr)

Katrina - Massive flood of money into New Orleans has been utterly wasted by corrupt Democratic government
Economy – Planned tax increases on corporations and capital formation will cause the economy to tank.
Economy – Planned 1.3 Trillion in new spending when we already owe over $10 Trillion, and that's not counting the $52 Trillion unfunded Social Security liability..
Credit Crunch - Was in favor of bailing out the banks to the tune of $700 B, without insisting on pre-conditions
Oil Prices - Won't allow additional refineries, shale oil or anything except a nebulous plan to inflate our tires
Drilling - Won't allow new drilling, when 2/3 of our oil comes from overseas, costing American jobs and hurting our balance of payments
Iraq - Opposed the surge, is willing to throw away the lives 4,000 soldiers who fought to win, not cut & run.
Afghanistan - Allowing things to relax too much in the late stages
North Korea - Will talk to them... period. Will gut missile defence just when it's starting to work.
Environment - Will kow-tow radical environmentalists, kiling coal, kiliing nuclear and leaving us with higher electric bills.
Human Rights - Has shown a penchant for using the law to silence critics, wants to impose Fairness Doctrine to eliminate and channels of discent.
Energy - Punitive taxes on the coal industry and pie in the sky plans for alternative energy will add costs but do nothing to solve the crisis.
Energy Investment - will nix new nuclear power plants
Stem Cell Research Funding - Will divert money from adult stem cell research to fetal cell research which has shown little promise.
Health Care - Will add 45 million people to the insurance pool, with no plan to increase supply. Defacto rationing, ala Britain and Canada are coming. Will penalize drug companies, bye bye new drugs and vaccines.
Education - Why should I pay for someone else's kid? Will throw more money at the existing public school system as a sop to the teachers' union but block fundamental reform.

Add to that immigration, the national debt, a two faced stance on gun rights, a desire to subvert the constitution through judicial appointments, and I'm plain scared.

Very nice pictures though.

Great photos and especially touching.

As for all the comments from the negative view. The Man has not even taken office yet. He is the President Elect, meaning he is not in charge, yet. Yall need to go away for a week or two and calm down.

And for all the crap about racism and those who did not vote for Obama being racist, yall need to calm down too. Yes some did not vote for Obama because he is black, maybe 1% of them did so. Most did not vote for Obama because they did not like him, were a die hard republican or just did not understand the issues.

People this is America, we are allowed to disagree and still all be Americans. Do I hate the republican hate machine media, you betcha! I think they are scum, ignorant, fear mongering scum, but they still have a right as an American to be stupid.

This president elect, Barack Obama was born for "Destiny". Given the margin of victory and the make-up of the electorate, this man was born to be president. In previous presidential elections candidates dropped out of the races because of some type of indescretions. In my heart and mind I always thought that if he were to be elected it would take "Supreme Intervention". How else can one explain it. I will never refer to him as the first black president. Instead, I would like to think of him as the first president that happen to be Black.

Good luck and GOD speed, Barak...show'em what america is made of...

Congratulations to the american people.

Beautiful!!!

As I read all the comments it strikes me that we all want a better America, we all want to do well and succeed. Whoever you voted for, know this. You did your best and voted. The rest of the world is thrilled beyond measure at this election. This country cannot be the beacon of freedom for this world if we don't shine a little light on ourselves.
We finally turned the flashlight on. We're coming out of the darkness, be it slowly, but we are coming out. I am proud of all you people young and old who are fighting for your beliefs. That's what has made this country great. It's time for the people to reclaim a government : of the people, by the people, and FOR THE PEOPLE.

Congratulations to President Obama. Maybe now we'll stop seeing the Statue of Liberty being destroyed or put underwater in every other disaster film, and now standing tall as the beacon it was meant to be.
On another note, why did it take so long for the real McCain to reappear. His concession speech showed the side of him that was truly missed these past few months.
Hopefully Obama can include him in his administration because how McCain's campaign was run is way off the mark on his true character.

As long as we remember that GOD was in charge of this election there's no telling where God will take us. This is a time of abundance. Lets remember to continue to glorify our God.Read judges chapter 4, it tell us what will happen. To GOD be the glory for the things he has done.

Amazing! :)

CONGRATULATIONS AMERICA!!!!
The world will be a better place!

Obama promised to run only on public money..then broke his promise.

His website did not check addresses on credit cards while Hilary and McCain's did.

Change?

I am very proud to be an american and always hold that pride. I cast my vote for president elect Obama and I did so not by judging on the basis of his color but by the content of his character. I only hope that going going fourth this nation of all colors, creeds, and backgrounds will finally be able to unite. Racism has no place in america. The only reason we fear anyone is that we dont know them and its time for americans to be americans and support each other regardless of color, etc. Barriers need to be broken down by us in our daily lives, consider being the only white in a roomful of blacks it takes one to out reach and befriend you to make you feel comfortable, now reverse the situation and consider being the only black, indian, chinese, etc. Than consider it only takes one person to make that difference because thats all it takes to truly unite our country.We must put aside our differences and embrace each others strengths to compliment each others weaknesses and move forward to restore america and its place in the world. I will be that one will you. God bless america and all her people.

I would like to say that i appreciate all that voted for MR. Obama. It took all of us, black white red yellow and green to get this great man in office. For those of you that still see color, please close your eyes and open your ears. God is Good. I am a proud African American female a mother of 2 and guess what I'M READY FOR THE CHANGE. I pray every night for WISDOM, God has appointed and directed a wonderful MAN. Please stop the racist comments because guess what the fact still remains that MR. BARAK OBAMA IS STILL THE 44TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. We need to pull together because its going to take a nation to bring us back to where we need to be. TO GOD BE THE GLORY.

I AM SO HAPPY FOR THIS GREAT WIN FOR THE USA AND MAYBE NOW AA YOUNG WOMEN AND MEN CAN SEE MORE NOW THAN EVER THAT THEY CAN DO ALL GREAT THINGS THROUGH CHRIST . PAISE TO THE NEW MR. PRESIDENT, THE NEW FIRST LADY AND THEIR LOVNING DAUGHTERS. MAY GOD BLESS THEM AND KEEP HIS ARMS AROUND THEM ALL DAYS AND NIGHTS. I ALSO THANK GOD THAT AT 51 I SAW IT AND MY FOUR SONS AND MY FIVE GRAND-CHILDREN TOO.
THANK GOD ALMIGHTLY

Congratulations to the american people, YOU DID IT !

Greetings from France !

I thank "GOD" for he truly hand picked you to run this country!

Don't just speak about it, Be about it!

"We DID IT!

thanks for the nice pics. some of the sore losers posting here are really lost! it seems there are many who feel disenfranchised, but forget we're all in it together! buck up little soldiers, or do u need some balls to go with that sour puss? after the train-wreck that has been bush/cheney, it behooves us all to be grateful their tyranny is near an end. to those that would laugh off this time in America as some joke, the jokes been on you and we have all been made the punching lines. it's high time to take back our country from the infidels - the AIGs, the Haliburtons, the Opium lords - put it back in the hands of the caring potheads who will turn a new leaf and perhaps steer us clear of further disaster

The "'power of prayer" is awesome! The election of Barack Obama proves it.

To posters #595 and #590. I agree with Denise #457. I'm British and white. I was married to an African American in the early 70's. I was surprised to see our baby considered black on all his medical records. It was like I didn’t count.

It's an American thing and I have never liked it because it reminds me of how during slavery a person only had to have a tiny drop of black blood to be considered chattel. White people could not be bought and sold there for had no market value if they started to look too white.

My bi-racial son is now 35 and married to a white woman. They have a daughter who is the same color as her mother and me and has blonde hair. According to some of the posters here my son is black because his father was black; therefore his daughter is also black because her father is black. I think it gets a little silly. Obama is bi-racial and that is a fact. I for one see his mother in him as well as his father. He’s awesome

I'm very thankful to see history in the making. I give my upmost respect and thanks to all the people who endured slavery, beatings, marches, bombs, and hatred for us to live in the country we call home. We as Americans should be proud for what all these people from long ago did for us and for those that are still fighting for our freedom. God Bless you President elect Barack Obama!! Yes we can and yes we did! To all the people writing the negative comments about a fellow American and a human being. "Let our haters be our motivators."

I bleieve that the higher power will guide him and protect and give him the strengh and wisdom he needs to become the best president we have ever had regardless of religious background his or ours . I believe HE brought hope and unity back regardless of who you voted for i think he did that to all of us weither you realize it or not ,and i believe only great things are gonna come fellow Americans . I believe he is breaking boundaries and barriers and i dont think it stops here . If we cant believe in the person running our country and dont have faith that he will bring us out of economic diseater then who can you count on and believe in to guide this country . Give the man time and patience and faith and he will take us to the next level and get us back to better . LETS BELIEVE . !!! This is it guys , this is what we been waiting for and we have it.. Buckle up and get ready for this new beginning . CHANGE IS COMING , FOLLOWED BY YOUR HOPE AND PATIENE

John Treffeisen, have no fear, finally we have a President for all of the people as the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. said.....for Black man or White, Jew or Gentiles all the peoples of America!
It has been a long time coming but that change has come, oh yes it has.....

I think aloud.....God you are an awesome God. Please bless our President Barack Obama

IN RESPONSE TO #424 KMG"

FIRST OF ALL, A LOT OF AMERICAN'S OF ALL RACES VOTE FOR THE WRONG REASONS.. SOME VOTED FOR MCCAIN BECUASE HE WAS NOT BLACK AND SOME VOTED FOR BARACK BECAUSE HE IS BLACK. EITHER WAY IT IS A WASH...AFRICAN AMERICANS DO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO FEEL LIKE THERE IS HOPE FOR A CHANGE IN THE WHITE HOUSE AND IN POLITICS PERIOD. BECOMING PRESIDENT IS THE HIGHEST HONOR YOU CAN ACHIEVE IN THIS COUNTRY AND BARACK OBAMA DID IT. NOW, AS FAR AS HIS UPRBINGING...YES HE WAS RAISED BY HIS WHITE GRANDPARENTS...HE WAS NOT RAISED BY HIS MOTHER. SO THE BLOW TO HIS FATHER'S CHARACTER IS NO ONE'S BUSINESS. SECOND...NOONE KNOWS WHO PAVED THE WAY OR WHO ALLOWED HIM THE ACCESS AND THE RESOURCES TO GET WHERE HE WAS IN POLITICS AND IS TODAY. MANY OF AFRICAN AMERICANS WHO WERE ABLE TO ELECT HIM TO THE SENATE MADE A WAY . HIS WHITE GRANDPARENTS DID NOT DO THAT. THEY DID NOT GET HIM IN THE WHITE HOUSE, IT WAS SUPPORT OF NOT ONLY AFRICAN AMERICANS, BUT FROM EVERYONE THAT BELIEVED WHAT HE BELEIVED AND THIS THE FACT THAT THIS COUNTRY NEEDS A CHANGE. AMERICA IS THE HEART OF RACISM AND IT EXISTS VERY MUCH SO TODAY...BUT AMERICANS REALIZE THAT WE NEED A CHANGE REGARDLESS OF THIS MAN'S COLOR. TO POST SOMETHING SO RIDICULOUS AS YOU HAVE DONE SHOWS HOW RACISTS YOU ARE. WHO CARES WHO RAISED HIM, WHO CARES WHO TOOK PART IN CREATING HIM AND MAKING HIM WHO HE IS...HE SUFFERED FROM RACISM FROM HIS OWN GRANDPARENTS WHO CALLED HIM THE N WORD AS WELL AS OTHER AFRICAN AMERICANS...SO DON'T PUT THAT OUT THERE, LIKE IF IT WASN'T FOR THEM. HE SAT IN THOSE CLASSROOMS AND GOT THOSE DEGREES...NOT THEM. HE DIDNT TAKE THEIR BRAINS IN TO TAKE THOSE TESTS, HE TOOK HIS. APPARENTLY HE IS SMARTER THAN WHAT YOU THINK BECAUSE HE THANKED HIS BEST FRIEND (HIS WIFE) AND HIS CHILDREN AND THE "SUPPORT" OF HIS FAMILY FOR WHERE HE IS TODAY. A MOTIVATIONAL DRIVE IS WITHIN THE PERSON, IT CANNOT BE TAUGHT NOR PURCHASED...SO KMG YOU SHOULD LEARN FROM PEOPLE LIKE BARACK AND ISTEAD OF FINDING FAULT...ACCEPT THE CHANGE BECAUSE AMERICANS NEED CHANGE MORE THAN EVER IN THIS WORLD...

~A REALIST~

It is absolutely amazing the amount of ignorance many people in this country show. The anger that is shown because a black man, a bi-racial man, a very well spoke, highly educated, talented MAN won the presidential race. Comments from #424, 307, 309 just to name a few are reasons why this country needs a change. If everyone in the country were blind Barack would had still one this race, he is the president elect not because of the color of his skin, but because of the man he is. The accomplishments he made in his life, the fact that most of the country felt he was the better candidate. If you were paying any attention during the primary, during the election you would have noticed Barack gave thanks to MANY African Americans that helped him along his path to say that NO African American helped this man become the man he is today is simply an ignorant comment. He mentioned his conversations with Gen Collin Powell, how he spoke to him looking for guidance last I remember Gen Powell is a blackman. The many other ignorant, uneducated, unsupported comments I have read about President Elect Obama are simply the comments made by ignorant, uneducated individuals. Please understand that if Barack Obama was an Asian, Hispanic, White, or whatever race and did just as he has done in the primary and the election he would still be our President-Elect. He was not voted into office soley based on his skin color. Also please understand that the vast amount of people that support Barack Obama are not only Black or White, but Asian, Mexican, Hispanic, Latino, German, Indian, ALL races support this man!! On election day the sea of people celebrating his victory were a sea of people from NUMEROUS races. Ignorance will always be a part of life I just hope that racism will some day become a non-issue. Open your eyes MANY children today who are the leaders of the tomorrow are just like our President Elect BI-RACIAL!

The pictures are FANTASTIC! Thank You boston.com!!! This is a historic time for the United States Of America! It's like we were all in a big black whole waiting for change! And now, OH YES WE CAN!!! It's like our light has been turned back on and a huge ray of HOPE is reaching to light up the skies....Letting the world know...Our lights are back on and we the American people spoke loud and clear,
OH YES WE CAN!!! We want the world to know, We want PEACE! We want to live in harmony with everyone! From here, we'll go day by day and pray that our new president, PRESIDENT BARRACK OBAMA...will lead us in a new direction towards a better tomorrow!!! A Better Tomorrow For Everyone!!!

Thanks I really appreciate this. I wasn't able to get a news paper but I do like this.

HEATHER! Get involved in your community! VOLUNTEER at any number of places that need your help: Food Banks, Shelters, hospitals, meals on wheels, tutoring,whatever you can do, it NEEDS to be done!
SOON your APATHY will dissolve into sympathy! You will start to feel HOPE for your fellow humans! It will help make you whole!
Monitor your elected REPRESENTATIVES! Go to congress.org and sign up for e mail alerts. PAY ATTENTION TO THE VOTING IN CONGRESS!!!! Start a citizen's group that will watch what your government is doing and provide input and inform your fellow constituents! Take ONE HOUR a week to devote to something that will change the world!

Congratulations America. Hopefully Barack Obama's term as President will allow your country to regain the credibility in eyes of the rest of the world that was lost during the George W Bush years. But will Obama initiate a roll back of the extraordinary powers that were shifted to the Presidency during the George W Bush years at the urging of his Vice President and his legal puppet Master? An astute and wise President would not have allowed that to happen, but perhaps a wise and astute President can fix the error of the previous regime's ways. Surely when one position has so much power, a true democracy can not be.

I read your comment thoroughly, John Treffeisen, so understand that when I tell you this. You are silly.

That is all.

Love these photos. Obama and his family can inspire all people to do better, to work together and harness incredible energy.

Obama inherits a mess in all directions but we are behind you to make this planet work.

Get rid of corruption, wherever it is, whatever country, bank, company, town hall, aid organisation or any other organisation. Get rid of it.

Congratulations America. Time to let intellect once again dominate your nations agenda. A new dawn is near, and it looks bright!

People may argue that Obama was the wrong candidate--that he may lead us towards socialism, that his tax cuts won't be what we expect . . . people need to wake up and look at the big picture. In the big picture, more people than ever rallied together to vote. In the big picture, a country that only recently moved away from a racist past has a black president. It is a testament to how far we have come as a country and what we can do together as a people. Barack Obama is not a wolf in sheep's clothing. He is the man that restored faith in a country that was losing faith, a man that gave us hope and made us believe that we could make a difference. NOW, it's not up to him, but up to US to do what we know we can in the big picture

PRESIDENT OBAMA, YOU ROCK THE WORLD!!!!
I am a Mexican-American female teacher and I am so proud that my fellow Latinos came through and supported the right man for this office.
GOD BLESS PRESIDENT OBAMA, FIRST LADY MICHELLE AND THEIR BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN. (and their new puppy too)!!!

@592 I don't know exactly who the clowns are that you refer to, but I really don't think the DEMOCRATS could do any worse than what we have had for the past eight years. I wish OBAMA God speed with all he endevors.

Government mandates such as Affirmativ Action tell us that the event of Barack Obama's election is an important, but not only, step toward a country which does not harbor racism.

This pics are AWESOME!! Thanks so much

Congratulations my Nubian Brother! President Barrrrrack Ooooobama! There are two things in life that are important; that's change and constant change. On November 4, 2008, Barack Obama was elected President of the United States of America, that was a HISTORICAL CHANGE. God had already made Barack Obama president of the US of A even before he was conceived in his mother's womb. For verification of that statement, turn your attention to the Holy Bible (King James Version) in the Old Testament to the 4th & 5th Chapters of Judges and read its entirety. That's evident enough. May we continue to pray their (Obama's) strength in the Lord. May God Bless them ALL, and God Bless America!
Marilyn Patty, Shaw, Mississippi

am-freakin-mazing! pics

AWESOME!!! NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE AS SHOWN BY YOU!!!

Barack Obama has chosen to identify with being African American. Yes, he is a BLACK man with a multi-racial heritage. (Most people of color have multi-racial backgrounds regardless of the primary group he has chosen to identify with) Barack has not denied his white heritage, which is clearly shown by his repeated references to his mother and grandparents who are largely responsible for shaping him. However, I GUARANTEE you that had Barack made no mention of his white side, that America would have considered him black off the bat. He most certainly would be considered BLACK (not multi-racial..or white) were he the primary suspect of a criminal investigation. Barack is aware that he looks black and that much of society identifies him as such. And that's just great. So let's all just celebrate this beautiful black man, and his family and their extraordinary achievvment.

I love you. Mr. Presidential obama. may god bless you very much. you on my prayer for your families. be peacesfully with Jesus christ and the name of the Lord on hearven.
Felix Borgela

you are cool