Barack Obama's parents were both extremely important figures in his life, and had a major influence on his upbringing and eventual success. His mother, Ann Dunham, was a white American from Kansas who met Barack's father, Kenyan student Barack Obama Sr., while they were both attending the University of Hawaii. The couple got married in 1961, but later divorced due to Barack Sr.'s infidelity and career ambitions. Nevertheless, Dunham remained an important figure in her son's life, instilling in him values of hard work and determination.
Obama's father also played a significant role in his upbringing, although he was largely absent due to his own career commitments. Nevertheless, he instilled in his son a strong sense of pride in his African heritage, as well as a belief in the importance of education. In 1982, however, Barack Sr. died in a car accident; this tragedy had a profound effect on young Barack Obama, and drove him to succeed even further in order to make his parents proud.
Overall, then, it is clear that Barack Obama's parents were highly influential figures in his life - both during his childhood and throughout his journey to the White House. Through their example and guidance, Obama learned essential lessons that would help him become the great leader he is today.