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Majorities of Americans believe the U.S. eclipses other industrialized countries when it comes to the freedoms, quality of life, and opportunities its residents enjoy. But most say the U.S. economic and healthcare systems trail behind others'.

Americans' moods worsened slightly in 2012, after improving over the past two years. Christmas and Thanksgiving were the happiest days in 2012, while the day of the Newtown school shooting and Election Day were among the least happy.

Americans' initial reaction to the "fiscal cliff" agreement reached by Congress this week is mixed, with 43% approving and 45% disapproving. Democrats overwhelmingly approve, while a majority of Republicans disapprove.

Americans' self-reported daily spending was $83 per day in December, up from $73 in November and the highest monthly average Gallup has reported since December 2008. Spending was up among higher- and lower-income Americans.

The large majority of Americans (69%) say they are optimistic about how they and their family will do in 2013, while 27% are pessimistic. Democrats and young adults are the most positive about what the coming year will bring.

Most investors want the government to take action to expand the use and flexibility of tax-advantaged accounts, such as 401(k) accounts, according to a recent Wells Fargo/Gallup Investor and Retirement Optimism Index survey.

The Gallup Job Creation Index remained relatively steady in December at +17, similar to the +18 average recorded in November. Nongovernment net hiring has stalled at +20, the lowest monthly average since February.

Americans were as likely to be obese in 2012 as they were in 2011. But the 26.2% who were obese in 2012 is slightly higher than the 25.5% recorded in 2008. Blacks, those aged 45 to 64, and low-income Americans remain the most likely to be obese.

Parents' concern about their children's safety at school has risen in the wake of the Newtown, Conn., school shooting. However, the 33% who currently fear for their child's safety is lower than after similar tragedies.

Fifty-four percent of Americans have a favorable opinion of the National Rifle Association; 38% view it unfavorably. Views of the NRA have fluctuated over time -- from a low of 42% favorable in 1995 to a high of 60% in 2005.