Obama wins historic US presidential election

In his acceptance speech, US president-elect Barack Obama told supporters that his election was a "defining moment, change has come to America".

"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is the place where all things are possible... tonight is your answer," he said.

He also praised his political opponent, Republican candidate John McCain, as a man who had "fought long and hard" both during the election campaign and for his country.