Miss USA Olivia Culpo reacts after being crowned during the Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas

America's Olivia Culpo has won the Miss Universe 2012 title, beating beauties from around the world and becoming the first US woman to take the crown since 1997.

Janine Tugonon of Philippines was crowned the first runner-up while Miss Venezuela, Irene Sofia Esser Quintero, finished third in the Las Vegas pageant.

Culpo was crowned by last year's winner, Leila Lopes of Angola.

The fourth and fifth place went to Miss Australia, Renae Ayris, and Miss Brazil, Gabriela Markus. The Miss Congeniality title went to Miss Guatemala, Laura Godoy. 

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