The historically significant aspect of Barack Obama's presidency was that he was the first African American president of the United States. Obama's election in 2008 was a major milestone in American history, as it represented a significant step forward in the country's efforts to overcome racial barriers and promote greater equality and diversity. During his presidency, Obama implemented a number of policies aimed at improving access to healthcare, promoting renewable energy, and supporting economic recovery following the 2008 financial crisis. He also oversaw the end of the war in Iraq and the killing of Osama bin Laden, the leader of Al-Qaeda. While Obama appointed two women to the Supreme Court during his presidency, he did not appoint the first female justice to the Court, as that occurred in 1981 with the appointment of Sandra Day O'Connor by President Ronald Reagan.