Family legacy plays a vital role in shaping Franklin D. Roosevelt's biography. He was born into a prominent family with a history of public service and wealth, which enabled him to access elite education and influential networks. His fifth cousin, Theodore Roosevelt, also served as a significant political influence. The values and traditions instilled by his parents, particularly in philanthropy and civic duty, profoundly impacted FDR's political philosophy. His understanding of American society's complexities and his commitment to addressing social inequalities were deeply rooted in this family legacy, shaping his vision for the New Deal and his leadership style during the Great Depression.