Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Nearly 50,000 people erupted in celebration when Rio de Janeiro was announced host of the 2016 Olympics, jumping and cheering in a Carnival-like party on Copacabana beach.
A huge roar was heard at the famed beach the moment International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge said the words "Rio de Janeiro" when announcing the winner in Copenhagen.
As popular President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and football great Pele celebrated in Denmark, the Cariocas, as Rio citizens are known, raised their arms to commemorate on Copacabana, frantically waving flags and hugging each other.
The party was expected to go on well into the night, and officials said the crowd would easily surpass 100,000 people.
The Cariocas danced to samba as confetti was launched into the air in front of a massive stage set up for the victory celebration.
A banner half the size of a football field — with Rio's logo, an image of the Christ the Redeemer statue and the words "Rio Loves You" — was displayed.
The Cariocas had been anxiously awaiting the result, taking advantage of a sunny day to watch the announcement on two big screens set up on the beach. Live concerts featuring popular artists had been entertaining the crowd since early in the morning, and the traditional Salgueiro samba group was on hand to keep the party going.
Rio beat Madrid, Chicago, and Tokyo, finally winning the bid after failed attempts in 1936, 2004 and 2012.
The games will be the first held in South America, and will take place by one of the most impressive backdrops — Rio's stunning beaches and famous landmarks, including the Sugar Loaf mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments