Who was the first African American president elected in the United States?

Barack Obama was the first African American president elected in the United States, serving two terms from 2009 to 2017. His election represented a significant milestone in American history, indicating progress in civil rights and racial equality. Obama's candidacy and eventual victory were influenced by various factors, including changing demographics, grassroots campaigning, and a widespread desire for change following the Bush administration.

Colin Powell, though a prominent African American politician and military leader who served as Secretary of State, never ran for president. Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, both of whom served as presidents before Obama, are white and thus do not fit the description of the first African American president. Obama's successful campaign and presidency are often seen as pivotal moments in the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the United States.