Less than a year after taking office, U.S. President Barack Obama was awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. Nobel Committee chairman Thorbjoern Jagland announced the award 9 October in Oslo, praising Mr. Obama for what the committee called "his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples."
President Obama made remarks from the White House Rose Garden shortly after being told of the award. Reactions from around the world and from within the U.S. provide insights into the political implications of the Prize award.
President Obama received the Nobel Peace Price in Oslo Thursday, 10 December 2009.
Text of President Obama’s acceptance speech in Oslo »
Watch or Listen to President Obama's remarks after award announcement, 9 October 2009 >>
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President says his accomplishments are slight compared to Nobel laureates such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela
US secretary of state says president was recognized for his willingness to challenge everyone, which has restored image of the U.S.
Many expressed surprise and disbelief at honor
Majority Democrats quick to praise award
White House says US president is 'humbled' to receive award
Many European leaders say gesture should encourage people worldwide to work for nuclear disarmament, resolve regional disputes
Mixed reaction in United States largely reflects deep divisions in US domestic politics
Analysts are divided on Nobel Peace Prize decision; some say Mr. Obama created new climate in international politics, others disagree
There is disbelief among some that his outreach to region has been enough for him to receive Nobel Peace Prize
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas congratulates President Obama, but sentiments not shared by many on streets of Arab East Jerusalem
US president's African heritage gives many in region, accustomed to feelings of marginalization on world stage, sense of pride
Nobel Committee chairman Thorbjorn Jagland says Mr. Obama has captured world's attention, given its people hope for a better future
Award comes just 11 months after former senator from Illinois became first African-American to be elected president of the United States
Reaction so far has been along party lines with Republican Party chairman saying president is undeserving of such recognition
Choice of President Barack Obama came as shock in Oslo, Norway where announcement was made
Nobel Committee's announcement comes as US president considers whether to send more troops to Afghanistan
Former Arab League Secretary-General Esmet Abdel Meguid says award appears to be positive development for peace in Middle East
Some say decision is premature for leader less than a year into his first term and with no definitive progress in sight
US president is particularly well-liked in Indonesia where he spent part of his childhood
Mr. Obama's father, Barack Obama, Sr. was born in Kenya
