Open Story: World reacts to Bin Laden death

Note: This story was published in May 2011.

(CNN) -- The mastermind of the worst terrorist attacks on American soil is dead, U.S. President Barack Obama announced May 1, almost 10 years after the attacks that killed almost 3,000 people.

In an address to the nation, Obama called Osama bin Laden's death "the most significant achievement to date in our nation's effort to defeat al Qaeda."

Almost immediately following the announcement, celebrations erupted around the country, bringing people together around monuments and campuses to chant and wave flags and sing the national anthem.

iReporter Zach Kahn headed to the White House the early hours of Monday morning to join in the celebration there. He said he wanted to share a moment in history.

"Although the crowd was packed tight, we all had the same energy," he said. "We felt united, it looked like a historic celebration and it sounded like we had finally achieved a feat nine years in the making."

Vanderbilt University student Chris McDonald, 22, said he was moved by seeing images of other college students reacting to the news.

"We were young at the time of the September 11 attacks, so we have grown up with this constantly in our minds," he said. "To see such justice delivered after such a long, hard wait is a feeling of unspeakable happiness. All Americans can truly feel proud of their nation's resolve."

But for some, celebrating the death of a human being seems wrong. "Bin Laden did need to die, but he is still a human being," said 19-year-old Betsy Mitchell of Greenville, North Carolina. "We are a nation of compassion giving billions of dollars per year to help undeveloped countries. Yet, we are unable to show even a little dignity with bin Laden's death."

What's your reaction to bin Laden's death? Share images and videos of the response where you live and your perspective could be part of this interactive story.