It was an extraordinary day.

Election Day in the U.S. brought Americans to the polls in record numbers. The election of Barack Obama as America's 44th President was both historic and emotional. It was an unforgettable finish to the campaign; a moment to be shared in homes, schools, workplaces -- and on Facebook.

By the time polls closed, more than 5.4 million of you had shared that you voted with your friends by clicking the "I Voted" button on Facebook, taking accountability for your contribution to the democratic process. All day long, the running tally of votes kept climbing on Facebook. So, too, did the number of status updates about friends voting, and the flurry of comments and encouragement about picking the next President. The national energy was palpable and contagious; we hope it spurred people on the fence to become an active part of this historic day by heading to the polls.