From coast to coast, Americans observed the results of a crucial choice On Tuesday, the next president of the United States was elected with a mix of tension, elation, relief and resignation as the votes were counted.

The race went to the vice president Kamala Harris against the former president Donald Trump.

Young and old mingled in crowds in public places like Times Square in New York City and on college campuses, looking for friends to share the night and the rollercoaster of emotions as the votes were counted.

Others sought solitude or quieter locations, such as a dark beach or the end of a tavern bar, where the glow of handheld devices or fluorescent lights illuminated the incoming results.

Some prayed. Some were happy.

And the world was watching too. From Taiwan to Jerusalem to India and beyond, many people around the world waited for the outcome of an election and wondered what impact it would have on their lives in the days, months and years to come.