President Obama makes White House history

Democrat Barack Obama became the 44th American president-elect as his Republican opponent John McCain conceded in a speech that highlighted the historic election of the first African-American president of the United States.

Obama took the stage shortly after McCain conceded and gave a victory speech that brought tears to many in the audience, which included celebrities like Oprah Winfrey.

“If there is anyone out there who still doubts america is a place where all things are possible,” Obama told his ecstatic supporters, “who questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.”

He acknowleged his oponent’s service to his country and congratulated Republican John McCain and his running mate Sarah Palin. “McCain fought hard inthis campaign but he Fought even longer and harder for the country he loves.”

About 15 minutes after the U.S. networks called the race McCain conceded from the Biltmore Hotel in his home state of Arizona.

“We have come to the end of a long journey. The american people have spoken and spoken clearly,” said McCain.

People booed as he said he congratulted Obama on becoming, but he shushed them andexpressed his admiration for the historic election and its special siginifance for African-Americans.

Wearing huge smiles and "I Voted" stickers, tens of thousands packed a downtown Chicago park and the surrounding area Tuesday for Barack Obama's election night party, drawn by the chance to be part of history.

Tears, hugs, and chants of "Yes we can!" and "Obama! Obama!" rang into the air Tuesday night in Chicago's Grant Park as supporters greeted the news that Barack Obama has made history and become the first black president-elect of the United States.

The news came sooner than many in the crowd had expected: immediately after polls closed on the west coast. Networks projected 149 electoral votes for Obama, well over the 270 neededto secure victory, and 147 for McCain.

Michelle Culpepper, 40, didn't have a ticket to the official party but was happy to join the throngs on the other side of the park for an event that locals were calling "Obama-rama." One million people were expected in the park and surrounding area.

"I want to be able to look back 20 or 30 years from now and know I was part of it," she said.

Incumbent President George W. Bush called Obama late Tuesday night to congratulate him on his "awesome night," according to White House
spokeswoman Dana Perino.

We have come to the end of a long journey. The american people have spoken and spoken clearly

Republican John McCain