VIDEO: President Obama insists America 'must change'

BARACK OBAMA has been sworn in as the 44th American president, making history as the country's first black head of state.

00:00, Tue, Jan 20, 2009

NEW ERA Barack Obama was sworn in as 44th US President today NEW ERA: Barack Obama was sworn in as 44th US President today

More than three million people descended upon Washington DC for the inauguration of their new Democratic leader at 4.56pm British time.

HISTORY IS MADE: PRESIDENT OBAMA'S SPEECH IN FULL

IN PICTURES: BARACK OBAMA GREETS HUGE CROWDS IN WASHINGTON

America's new President took his oaths using the tiny, battered Bible used by his presidential idol Abraham Lincoln at his first inauguration in 1861.

The scene at National Mall in Washington DC The scene at National Mall in Washington DC

After a 21-gun salute President Obama made his first speech, opening with the words, "I stand here today humbled by the task before us."

Evoking America's past leaders, he said: "Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms."

He blamed America's problems on, "Our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare for a new age."

As expected Mr Obama tackled the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and spoke of a "badly weakened" economy that he blamed on the "greed and irresponsibility" of some.

To rapturous applause he said: "Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met."

Alluding to the presidency of George W Bush, Mr Obama said: "On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

"On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics."

Instead President Obama pledged for a "new era of responsibility" and promised a new start with the Muslim world based on "mutual interest and mutual respect."

He also addressed the world, saying: "And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more."

As a poignant reminder of the racial segregation that still haunts much of America, Mr Obama said: "This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath."

A mammoth security operation was in place today, with 23,000 police and National Guard soldiers, 5,265 security cameras, helicopter gunships and bullet proof glass to protect Mr Obama as he was sworn in.

Mr Obama began his day at a private church service across the street from the White House, following the tradition of past presidents.

The Rev. Luis Leon of the St. John’s Episcopal Church drew laughter as he welcomed the Obama family and said every president since James Madison has worshipped at the church at least once, "some of them kicking and screaming."