An optimistic world... Barack Obama's historic victory as the first black American President brings new hope for millions
Last updated 11/6/2008 10:14:58 AM
Barack Obama historic victory as the first black American President brings new hope for millions
It's being described as a defining moment for America. It's being described as history in the making; a time of change.
And, whichever side of the political side of fence you're on, Barack Obama's victory is being greeted by millions across America - and the world - as a moment of genuine optimism.
The triumphant Democrat will be sworn in as the 44th U.S. president on January 20, 2009. He didn't play the race card in his campaign, but the significance of his election as the first black U.S. president is, quite simply, huge.
The success of Obama - the son of a black father from Kenya and white mother from Kansas, marks a milestone in U.S. history.
Coming 45 years after the civil rights movement led by Martin Luther King, a dream is realised for those who never believed that America could be led by a black man.
"It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, at this defining moment, change has come to America," Obama said. "The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America - I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there."
The forty seven year old President Elect won at least 338 Electoral College votes, way in excess of the 270 needed. With results in from more than two-thirds of U.S. precincts, he led McCain by 51 per cent to 48 per cent in the popular vote.
Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, who witnessed the assassination of Martin Luther King in 1968 and twice ran for president in the 1980s, was ecstatic. "His winning means America's getting better," he said. "We are more mature. We are less anxious around each other.
"I know so many people white, black and Jewish who marched and were martyred. I wish that those who paid the supreme sacrifice could see the results of their labours."
And the reaction of world leaders reflected a sense of optimism internationally. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said: "Barack Obama ran an inspirational campaign, energising politics with his progressive values and his vision for the future."
The French President Nicholas Sarkozy responded: "With the world in turmoil and doubt, the American people, faithful to the values that have always defined America's identity, have expressed with force their faith in progress and the future." He added: "At a time when we must face huge challenges together, your election has raised enormous hope in France, in Europe and beyond."
Defeated Republican candidate John McCain generously congratulated Democrat Barack Obama for winning the U.S. presidency. "We have come to the end of a long journey. The American people have spoken, and they have spoken clearly," he said. "Senator Obama has achieved a great thing for himself and for his country. I applaud him for it."
We don't have a political agenda here at Optimist World. We campaign for good news - and in our choice of news coverage, we vote every day for a brighter outlook on life.
Without doubt, some will consider we're taking a political stand in making Obama's win our lead story. But on such a ground-breaking, extraordinary day it would be churlish, whatever your personal political opinions, not to view this moment in American history as a time of remarkable and inspiring change.
It is, perhaps, and let's hope, a seed of optimism - a nod towards a more positive future and, most importantly, a more accepting world.
As ever, we look to you, our fellow Optimists, for your views. So are you celebrating this morning? And do you feel encouraged by Obama's victory? Leave your comments below....