Family Ties- msnbc.com

A special Nightly News series

Roberta McCain on her son 'Johnny'

John McCain's upbringing was largely shaped by his mother. Now 96, Roberta McCain continues to inspire her son.

Web exclusive: More from Roberta McCain

Long shadow cast by Obama's parents

Barack Obama talks about the impact his upbringing has had on his presidential campaign.

Web exclusive: Watch the extended interview

Clinton's roots

NBC's Andrea Mitchell reports on Hillary Clinton's Depression-era parents, who inspired her to be anything but typical.

Web exclusive: Clinton's lessons from childhood

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