What a second term means at home and abroad

HE may have proved divisive in the United States and controversial around the world, but George W Bush succeeded yesterday where his father failed and won a second term as president.

The US electorate appeared to decide that security and consistent leadership in a time of war and terrorism was more important than the "new direction" that most say they want.

Mr Bush's victory over Senator John Kerry came after one of the most bitterly contested election campaigns in history.