Former President Barack Obama changed the course of American history by becoming the country's first Black president and breaking racial barriers that had existed for generations. Now 64, Barack, along with the former First Lady, Michelle Obama In a new interview, the couple looks back on that historic chapter, and says they hope their years in the White House inspired others to believe in themselves and the possibilities ahead.
Barack Obama talks about the symbolic significance of his election to the White House.
Speaking to PEOPLE magazine just days after the opening of his new Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, Barack reflected on his election to the White House in 2008. On that November day, the Harvard graduate defeated Republican John McCain, becoming the first Black man to win the presidency.
«"Of course, there's a certain symbolism to the day I was elected. I always told Michelle and her friends that I hoped that if I were elected, it would change the way children think about themselves," Barack said.
Continuing his speech, the former US president expressed hope that his election would inspire people from all walks of life to believe in themselves and what is possible for them.
«"I hoped that girls would suddenly start to feel, 'Okay, no matter what the limitations are, no matter what the precedents are, I think I can achieve something.' I wanted Asian-American and Latino kids to feel the same way, that there are no barriers," he said.
Barack Obama said he and his team had achieved what they wanted to achieve in the White House.
Barak went on to say that he believed he and his team had achieved their goal of instilling hope throughout the country. On the other hand, the author of "The Promised Land" noted that much remains to be done.
«"It was never realistic to think that because of one election, one president, 400 years of history would suddenly disappear," he said. "But I think there are kids who grew up during my presidency who said, 'Yeah, sure, we can have a Black president. Why not?' And I'm confident that when we have a woman president, which we will soon have in my lifetime, it will become the norm, and that's exactly what we want.".
Michelle Obama said her husband's presidency was about more than just "race.".
Continuing the discussion, First Lady Michelle Obama supported her husband, declaring that his presidency was not just a matter of "race." It was about character, honesty, and integrity.
«"The symbolism of his presidency wasn't just about race—it was also about who he is as a leader, as a man, as a father, and as a husband," said the mother of two. "I think Barack offered this country a mature president, a very smart president, a selfless president, and I think those qualities are just as important as race. I think he made this country proud in a very unique way.".
Barack speaks candidly about life at 60.
In a separate interview with PEOPLE magazine, Barack spoke candidly about life in his 60s, saying, "I feel good, even though I don't look as good as [Michelle].".
During the conversation, Barack, known for his love of basketball, was asked if his supporters would ever be able to see him play on the court at his new presidential center.
«"No," he replied sharply. "I'm going to suggest we play Horse. We can have a throwing contest. I'm not going to run back and forth across the court because I want to protect my knees and Achilles tendon. I don't want to wear an orthopedic boot.".
Barack said that while he can still run back and forth, moving side to side is a whole different story. "I'm starting to worry that something might go wrong," he joked.
Learn more about the new Barack Presidential Center in Chicago
The new Barack Presidential Center is located in Chicago's beloved Jackson Park neighborhood on the city's south side. According to CNN, it houses a museum, a sports complex, a library, and public open spaces.
The official opening took place on Emancipation Day weekend (Juneteenth) in 2026. According to Obama.org, the project's goal is to "inspire, empower, and connect people to change the world." "We strive to create a vibrant democratic culture where people are equipped and motivated to make a difference in the communities where they live, work, and play.".
Read also: Barack Obama says feud with Trump has damaged his marriage.