US President George W Bush [Images] has hailed the landslide victory of Barack Obama [Images] and described the polls as 'historic' noting that it fulfilled the dream of a generation who witnessed civil rights movement for racial equality.

"This moment is especially uplifting for a generation of Americans who witnessed the struggle for civil rights with their own eyes and four decades later see a dream fulfilled," he said.

Bush expressed happiness over the large turn out of voters and said that irrespective of how Americans voted, they can be proud of the 'history that has been made'.

"No matter how they cast their ballots, all Americans can be proud of the history that was made on Tuesday. Across the country, citizens voted in large numbers. They showed a watching world the vitality of America's democracy and the strides we have made toward a more perfect union.

"They chose a President whose journey represents a triumph of the American story: a testament to hard work, optimism and faith in the enduring promise of our nation. Many of our citizens thought they would never live to see this day," he said.

47-year-old Obama, a Democrat, reached the White House exactly 45 years after the Black civil rights leader Martin Luther King challenged Americans to embrace his 'dream' of equality.

"It'll be a stirring sight to watch President Obama, his wife, Michelle, and their beautiful girls step through the doors of the White House. I know millions of Americans will be overcome with pride at this inspiring moment that so many have waited so long," Bush added.

In his address to the White House, Bush promised his full co-operation to his successor, stressing there is 'important work' to do in the months ahead.

"During the transition, I will keep the president-elect fully informed on important decisions. And when the time comes on January 20 (when Obama will take over as 44th President), Laura and I will return home to Texas with treasured memories of our time here, with profound gratitude for the honour of serving this amazing country," Bush said.

Noting the US has embarked 'on a period of change', he expressed confidence the next government will stay vigilant in protecting the American people.

"The world can be certain this commitment will remain steadfast under our next commander-in-chief."

The President also invited Obama and his family 'to visit the White House'.

"Last night, I extended an invitation to President-elect and Mrs Obama to come to the White House, and Laura and I are looking forward to welcoming them as soon as possible. I know Senator Obama's beloved mother and grandparents would've been thrilled to watch the child they raised ascend the steps of the Capitol and take his oath to uphold the Constitution of the greatest nation on the face of the Earth," Bush said.