Barack Obama has formally accepted the Democratic Party's nomination for presidential candidate, making him the first African-American to be chosen for the role by a major US party.

He made a wide-ranging speech that covered everything from tax relief and affordable health care to education and foreign policy. It had a clear effect on many in the 75,000-plus audience.

After his speech, Mr Obama was joined on the stage by his wife Michelle and daughters Sasha (left) and Malia (right). Michelle Obama gave a speech on the convention's opening night on Monday.

Former Vice-President Al Gore also gave a speech, encouraging Americans to vote for Barack Obama because he represents "the best of America".

More than 75,000 people gathered at the Invesco Field stadium for the closing day of the Democratic National Convention.

Before the main event, the crowds were treated to speeches and performances by community leaders, politicians and musicians including Sheryl Crow and Stevie Wonder.

There has been some criticism of the move to the stadium, and the temple-like appearance of the main stage.

Democrats were looking for Mr Obama to cement his standing within the party and reach out to those voters who are not convinced by his message, say correspondents.

Mr Obama's speech marks the finale of the Democrats' carefully choreographed convention. It comes on the 45th anniversary of Martin Luther King's historic "I have a dream" address.