After 3 years in Madrid I find that racial discrimination is rampant and "acceptable". This in the capital of the 8th largest world economy: a racism unrivaled by any major US city. Racism does exist in the US, sadly, but not like this. Is your claim of racism based on experience, or a projection?

fran, Madrid, Spain

Liverpool & Bristol: built on the slave trade and the sugar plantations worked by slaves. Slavery itself was only abolished in British territories in 1833. National Museum in Edinburgh has a brass collar for a late 18thC Scots slave. France had its "Ebony" trade. Civil Rights Movt.? See N Ireland

Caroline Cracraft, Chicago, IL USA

We've already had several women leaders in Europe.
We don't get high on ourselves just for that.
And the US?
We didn't have the same mass importation of slavery. African immigration is more recent here and therefore there is less of a movement in that respect.
PS..The web was developed at CERN

Rob, Paris, France

I find it completely hilarious that Europeans have loftily regarded the United States as a racist nation. Who brought slaves to America? Who maintained an empire of inequality and exploitation in Asia and Africa long after the United States abolished slavery? Let's not forget our roots.

Christina Lengyel, Los Angeles, United States

I think most British would resent their culture being lumped together with the rest of Europe. Given that they fought against Nazi Germany on principle for the whole war, not just when circumstances suited. Also, the UK never had a civil rights movement, it simply wasn't needed. Racist they aren't.

Neil, Glasgow,

Is it possible that we weren't racists to begin with and that all the "you're a racist" epithets hurled said more about the hurlers than the recipients?

Just a thought.

Jamo, Twin Lakes, usa

"the public relations disasters of Guantanamo Bay and Abu Ghraib"
Public relations disaster? You kinda missed the point.

John, washington dc,

Obama is not truly a black man. Anybody with a speck of white blood is deemed by me as a white man. However I congratulate him and wish him well. He should be mindful of Africans who would like to take advantage of his position.

satta, Lagos, Nigeria

Wait a minute, John Gorn. Whether or not "Americans don't care what the rest of the world think" the internet is an American phenomenon. Same goes for most of modern technology. Hey, it's lonely at the top. Sour grapes, anybody?
We still rock. Ask Barack.

Diane Gordon, Lenox , USA

Obama is right: America's the greatest country in the world. I'm an American expat living in Switzerland since 2001. While life is good here in many respects, "Joe Citizen" is resigned to static policies, and does not know the feeling of empowerment. I'm filled with joy and pride in the USofA.

Sharon, Lausanne, Switzerland

Good grief. Get a grip, Europe! He's not the Messiah. Also, we are not "ruled" by our presidents. Finally, a continent in which 6 million people were killed because of their Judaism should not calling the U.S. racist.

Michael, Mission Viejo, California, United States of America

regardless of what the rest of the world thinks,the president of the u.s. is not the king and ruler,so stop addressing him or her as the ruler. we have what is called a constitution and a congress, who rightfully is supposed to run the affairs of the country.

chris, mantua, us

An interesting discussion would be the redefinition of the term "African American", but that really has nothing to do with the results of the election last night.

I wish him all the luck in the world. We need it.

I voted for him to do his best.

Lloyd, Austin,

"The country regarded loftily by many Europeans as hopelessly racist."
I wonder how many have actually been to the US. I grew up in the UK and now live in the US. Uk has just as much racism amongst everyday people. The more educated, the less racism is a trend that fits both nations.

ronnie, Palo alto, USA

I'm old enough to remember the evils of segregation and racial hate and grateful to see those bad old days fading into the past.
It was not only race hate that held the US back. I have realized that my late mother was FOURTEEN before women could vote in my country.
GOD BLESS AMERICA.

carl mcmath, SPARTANBURG SC, USA

I am amused by the Americans who have commented that they don't care what the rest of the world thinks, yet they have taken the time to comment on a UK news site. 'Nuff said.

John Gorn, San Diego, USA

Thanks to the well-wishers from around the globe, but this was an American thing. And, it was a long time coming. It's time we practice what we preach. Don't be disappointed if change is not immediate. W had eight years to undermine our Constituition; don't expect Obama to right the ship overnight.

Jud Rodney, Nashville, USA

America has elected an inspiring, intelligent, individual with a vision for all Americans. When you travel, do people know you are American or do they appeal to something else? On Election Day, Americans appealed to something else besides color and that, my friends, is progress.

Maureen, Wilton, Northeastern USA

C.G., Edmonton, Alberta - You do realize that it was one state, California, that overturned same sex marriages? It is already being contested. While I don't agree with the decision, everyone has the right to express their views.

Stephanie, Baltimore, USA

Congratulations to Mr Barak Obama on this splendid
Victory. Expectations are piling on issues that were
not of interest to America only but to older Civilizations the East too.& expect him to understand common denominators of Humanitiesto be comprehended and addressed

SS Ranade , Mumbai, India

I have heard more Americans than European "loftily" telling me that the USA is "hopelessly racist". Thank goodness they were all wrong.

Peter, London,

I am glad Obama won but wish politicians wouldn't just repeat the word change...it doesn't mean anything.

Joshua, Manchester, England

I hope Obama can rein in Pelosi and Reid's congress who are bound to come out with some off the wall bills they've been sitting on for ages. Example, abolishing the secret ballot for unionisation elections - so the union knows exactly who voted for whom; a huge step backwardsfor workers.

Stan(expat), USA, USA

America is "hopelessy racist"?

Remind me again, who was your first non-white Prime Minister? Which Royal family was non-white? While you are working on that, get me the list for the rest of the EU. Surely this list is long...you have a few hundred years head start, right?

Don, Mckinney, USA

Most people around the globe celebrated the Obama victory as very much their own! America now needs to take on the world leadership that the current USA government has misappropriated and cooperate with the rest of the world to promote peace and prosperity. To do this, one needs to be a charismatic leader with great acumen, vision and good judgement. Obama seems to bring to the table all the above and more! I hope that he is given the opportunity to implement his policies. God help America and the world.

Vasilisk, Sydney, Australia

Obama is not a black man. He is a Mulatto, or bi-racial. I would just like one person in the media to stand up and say it. He has been elected, you won't turn off any black voters, your man is in the White House. But lets call him what he is, shall we !

Gina, Dallas, USA

Koo,we-Brits-could-learn-lots
from-those-Yanks!

Franklin, London, England

In the wake of your historic moment of electing a black president, you strip the rights of same sex families. Ironically, 70% of the "Yes" voters were black. You celebrate a decision too long in the making with characteristic jingoism while you continue to oppress. Congratulations.

C.G., Edmonton, Alberta

President elect Obama can certainly deliver a speech. Delivering the CHANGE promised is fraught with compromises and POLITICS. The major change needs to come from the American political system where elected representatives are not in the Debt of major contributors.

Bruce Maxwell, Sydney,

I am admittedly biased, but my country once again showed the unparalleled capacity for adaptation that has characterized it since its inception. Americans aren't perfect, to be sure, but no one else is, either. We should be grateful that the U.S. can learn from its mistakes and rectify them.

Mark Murphy, Savannah, Georgia, USA

I am so proud to call my self an American today. I am so proud to call Barack Obama my president. What a great time for America and the world.

Christopher, Nashville, TN, United States

BTW Gerard, we in the US are not "ruled" by anyone but ourselves. We took care of that in 1776.
While Obama is the Cmdr in Chief, most of our immediate lifestyle rules and regs are made up of citizen legislators on a local level.

Bubba, New York, USA

I'm tired of being lectured to by the predominantly white European elites! ALL nations of the Earth have a history of slavery, so deal with it and move on. We have. Besides, when was the last time Europe elected a Black leader?

Joe Manzo, Peabody, MA, USA

I am so glad that people abroad share the same sense of pride in Obama that I do. I have never been so proud of my country, and I'm enthralled that I was alive to watch the states change on the election coverage maps last night, and to see his speech.

Hannah, Westerville, OH, U.S.A.

It was an exciting experience to see the joy and hope displayed by so many Americans last night. As a nation, I don't don't think we've felt that way in many years. It was almost as satisfying to see the positive response from the rest of the world. Some of us do care what you think of us.

BryanB, Seattle, WA, USA

A hearty hello to Gerard Baker and without malice i say this "Europe, especially the UK is more rascist and reserved than America is" Rascism under the cloak of Tolerance.
Surely Tarique Ghaffur is a stark example of being half good enough. Not America though Obama is President!

Ladi, London, UK

Electing a black-white man who is well-education, well-spoken and cool as a cucumber is not very surprising.

Electing a woman with the same political leanings would be an absolute astonishment. Our country still gives men of all races and ethnicities an enormous edge up over women - sadly.

Ann Baker, Helena, MT, USA

They're busy electing a black guy President and at the same time banning gay marriage. The only thing that's changed in the past 50 years is the type of people they're discriminating against.

Ryan, Winnipeg, Canada

Shake it up baby -- in the good ole USA. Perhaps Asia might consider losing communism? Perhaps the middle east might consider women's rights. Love how the world judges us...but when we look at the world, it's just really darn good to be here at home in America.

naomi, dallas, usa

For me, Obama doesn't generate a sense of hope, but one of trepidation. His connections to Marxists and other radicals just plain scares me.

Melissa, Nebraska,

The gravity our nation's problems at home and abroad feels lighter today to a majority of Americans. If for only a brief time, let us revel in this renewed optimism and enjoy this sense of accomplishment. When we return our attention to the serious issues, may we bring with us this feeling of hope.

Ben Sacks, San Francisco, USA

Obama, Condoleeza Rice, Colin Powell, Clarence Thomas, Thurgood Marshall-- the list goes on and on. O.K. Europe, let's have your list of elected black officials. Talk about calling the kettle black (or should I say white).

Jim McCandless, Los Gatos, CA, U.S.A

I wonder if the "rest of the world" has really given much thought to the global ramifications of a USA that is more like "Sweden" or "Canada", a prospect that is certainly a possibilty after a two-term Obama presidency if Obama lives up to his record and not his campaign rhetoric.

Michael, Toronto,

Oi! Well I now feel very good! Its a beautiful state of mind! we should stay positive! i know that the United States of America is the least racist country actually...and not just after most voted for Obama....and Jim in Tempe calm down...Europe is a great "place". Happy!!!!! for a bit at least!!!!!

Brandon La Mar, San Jose California!, United States

Americans are not ruled by anyone. And I second the idea that what others think of us means nothing to me.

Joseph Emanuele, Santa Rosa, USA

article says ....
The country (USA) regarded loftily by many Europeans as hopelessly racist ...
Is it true some Europeans make monkey noises at black players during European futbol matches sometimes waving Nazi flags? Are these examples of European enlightenment? Look in the mirror Euros.

Sophia, Largo, Florida, USA

President elect Barack Obama brings HOPE to Canada and to a World that has not dared use that word for many, many years.
It was truly inspiring to see the reflection of that word in the faces
of the vast crowd in Chicago last night. May God Bless and strengthen President elect Barack Obama.

Bruce and Eiddwen Thomas, Sidney, Canada

Mr. Baker stated that America has elected a Black Man to Rule. We don't elect people to rule in this country. We elect them to lead.

Scott, Salt Lake City, USA

I could care less what the world thinks about US. I don't want to live like a Euro and their socialist ideals.

Jim, Tempe,

President-elect Barack Obama's success is due to many sociopolitical currents in the USA. Americans are disgusted beyond belief with the horrors committed by the Bush administration, we are fed up with the corporate welfare schemes of the past 30 years, and we are evolving beyond racism.

James, San Francisco, California, United States

I've recently moved to Utah and I'm stunned at the response to Obama around here. If one were to believe these people we have just witnessed the beginning of the End Of Days. Sadly, there is little feeling of inclusiveness, and a lot of anger and fear.

John, Provo,UT, USA

For the first time in a very long time, I am optimistic about the future of my country, and I am proud to have witnessed an event that would have been unthinkable when I was born. Obama is a beacon for positive change, and so many are now hopeful that he can unite us to meet the challenges ahead.

Eileen Miller, Apex, North Carolina, USA

I did not vote for Obama, and I disagree with most of his viewpoints but as someone who once swore to protect and defend the constitution I have no problem referring to him as my president. I can not be like other Americans who claimed that Bush was not their pres because they didnt vote for him.

Larry, Jacksonville,

I didn't vote to be "ruled" by anyone. Americans are citizens of a country, not subjects of a crown, despite Bush II's attempts to make this so. Hopefully, Barack Obama will change the image, in the eyes of our global family, of the US President and all Americans from despotic to collaborative.

lauren anderson, portland, usa

For the hypocrites who write about Obama and socialism, Sarah Palin is governorOFf the largest socialist state in America. Every man, woman & child gets $$$$ every year from the Alaska Pipeline Project. Palin even stated her PRIDE in this fact earlier this year.
REPUBLICANS FOR OBAMA!!!!

joyce, Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A.

Mr. Baker makes a very important distinction between electing a Democratic president, and whether or not the country is ready for a liberal agenda. Congratulations to President-Elect Obama, but he shouldn't forget that we are fundamentally a nation of centrists, with a few zealots on either side.

Bruce Hebert, Panama City, Florida, USA

"Sorry about the last couple of elections, World. Hope this one makes up for it. Enjoy.

Clayton, St. Louis, MO, USA"

My thoughts exactly, Clayton.

Jenn, Akron, US

I cannot possibly articulate well enough how proud I am of the United States! While there are enormous challenges ahead, we have been able to present our best selves to ourselves and to the whole of the world! We are finally embodying all of the hopes and dreams that we are founded upon!

Peggy Murphy Mercado, Bayside, USA

Saddening that Obama's victory is already being reduced to a matter of race. I voted for him because of his policies--foreign and domestic--his pragmatism, his message of hope, and his eagerness to rejoin the responsible nations of the world. His race was the furthest thing from my mind.

J. Jacobs, New York, USA

@Terry, Charlotte, U.S.A.:
"Obama is 50% Caucasion, so it is more like a victory for everyone. " Of course it is. Even if he was 100% African, I would regret that anyone would want to see it as anything other than victory for all Americans.

Charan Muzaya, London, UK

Maybe we can start being simply Americans. Not African Americans, Irish Americans, Italian Americans, etc.

Colin Coghlan, Ramsey, NJ, USA

The state where I grew up(Wisconsin), the state where I spent most of my adult life(Virginia), and the city where I am spending my present and my future(New York), all went for Obama. Three diverse area, one conclusion: that the madness of the last eight years had to come to an end.

Joel Haberli, New York, United States

Competence and decency are dependent upon the point of view. Your messiah has become president? This only serves to weaken the position even more than clinton before him. Confidence will only be restored when obama is in the wings writing yet another memoir. I told you so is coming very soon!

Tim, Lafayette,

Well done America. Obama's victory has sparked a new sense of hope and unity which will resonate around the world. Irish eyes are smiling.

James, Dublin, Ireland

I am very proud of America today. I am 24 years old and i didnt think i would see this in my life time, i am glad to have been proven wrong. Obama has a huge task ahead of him but with the right people to support him im sure he will rise to that challenge. I hope that the UK electorate takes note.

Cheryl, Nottingham, UK

It may be impossible to undo the damage to the American image worldwide after Bush, but I believe Obama has a shot. His great strength is his ability to be a unifying force, accross political, ethnic, national and other divisions. It's a monumental job, but I believe he is well suited for it

Steve Tsoris, Charlotte, USA

Sorry about the last couple of elections, World. Hope this one makes up for it. Enjoy.

Clayton, St. Louis, MO, USA

Well, America servived Jimmy carter. how much worse can it be

Randy, Midland, Texas

Obama is 50% Caucasion, so it is more like a victory for everyone.

Terry, Charlotte, U.S.A.

Those of you who are still cynical that Barack Obama will deliver need to be reminded of one simple thing: He won against ALL odds! Next question?

Jimmy C, Letchworth Garden City, UK

Outstanding to see that the US has recognised that it does need to change in the Worlds eyes as well as for its own sake. Electing a Black man is not a magic bullet in itself that will kill all ills . What is does do is literallly allow the US to show a very diffent face that we can beleive..

Mike, swindon, england

The time has come to put away our cowboy hats and grow back up to have a civil discussion with the world rather than a military solution to problems. I don't envy the problems but I think we chose the correct President.

T.Schmidt, Holdrege, Nebraska, USA

An historic euphoric day and it appears the optimism is truly global. President-elect Obama stated clearly his appreciation of the challenges he and his team will face, but I believe that the result alone will be a force for positive change.

sue vasner, london, england

Our 17 year old son came home to say the acceptance speech was the most inspiring he had ever heard. It is that sense of hope that Obama can generate. A true leader: he will need managers to support him to deliver change. I for one am hopeful the USA can be restored as a beacon of democracy.

a don, Sydney, Australia

An African American woman born in the U. S., my country's election of Barack Obama has given me new hope and a belief that most people want peace and fairness. As Obama's contemporary, I was a child when Dr. King was alive. I am very proud of my fellow citizens and of Pres-Elect Obama.

Cynthia, Chicago, U.S.A.

Glad confident morning. His victory returns the USA to the forefront of freedom again. "Only in America." is a phrase that once again resonates with a positive sentiment. His JFK references ("not in the first year (100 days), not in the first term (1000 days") were a joy.

Trafford, London, UK

I did not vote for him,but I will respect him because he is The President Elect Of The United States Of America. Our country has many challenging days ahead. Let us put the partisianship and hatred behind us and bring forth a new stronger America. There are no excuses anymore.President Obama proved that America is the greatest land of OPPORTUNITY on the planet.Together lets move forward...HELP WANTED LAZY NEED NOT APPLY.AMERICA IS THE GREATEST COUNTRY ON THE PLANET...USA...USA...USA...USA...USA

ROB, Salisbury , USA

Don't put your party hats on just yet. The socialist agenda cannot pass without a super majority in the US Senate - something it appears Premier Obama will not have.

Guy Thompto, Cedarburg, USA

In every victory lies the seeds of the next defeat - this is begining of the end for political correctness. Places to hide for pseudo-victims has run out.

Robin, London,

If anything this election was a referendum on the presidency of George W. Bush. Americans have spoken with a loud voice and turned their back on him and his divisive policies of the past eight years. The Republican Party have only themselves to blame and will now spend years banished into the wilderness of political irreverence.

M. Simon, London, England

I agree with AndrewD, its great that there's chance to take a new approach, but good luck with working miracles. McCain may just end up being thankful that he lost and doesn't have to tackle the enormous problems that Obama is going to be faced with.

StevenA, London, UK

"Even though he had a right to be considered at least as much an agent of change as Mr Obama." When he voted with Bush over 90% of the time? You are kidding, right?

Martin, Chicago, USA

This result demonstrates that fairness and decency is in the majority. America seemed to be so much the other way over last eight years that the world despaired. Many previously neglected Americans have found a candidate that represents them for the very first time. A social revolution is underway.

James, Beckton, East London

Good luck with the water into wine thing....

AndrewD, Johannesburg, South Africa

People posture too much about the US. "It's sexist, racist."
It's whole historical direction has been towards more equal rights for its citizens. It's a vast, multi-racial democracy.
Surprising they elected a black guy? No.
A white, catholic woman elected in Iran / Iraq - THAT would be surprising

cath, london, uk

The last new young and charismatic President was JFK.

Dear Americans - keep this one safe

David Kay, Vevey, Switzerland

I just hope that that Biden is not to become President sooner than we think - the Americans have a gruesome way of satisfying some of their radical thinking - likening Obama to JFK and Martin Luther King also reminds us of how they died.

Martyn Rees, Sydney, Australia

I am glad that the Amercicans elected a black president. The Germans already have a woman chancellor and we, in the good old days, elected Mrs Thatcher. Does this mean that the racists/sexists of the political correctness phalange can now be kicked off the white man's back?

Stephen Baker, Montpellier, France