From his humble roots and his struggle with a debilitating stutter to the tragic circumstances in which he lost his first wife and baby daughter - and later his son, Beau - Joe Biden's life story has given him a unique ability to connect with the average person.

Homespun, caring and empathetic, if perhaps a little long-winded, "Uncle Joe" frequently dispenses heartfelt advice sprinkled with aphorisms and quaint Bidenisms.

Renowned for forging partnerships across the aisle in the Senate, Joe's optimism, compassion and sense of fair play have never wavered. And when it comes down to his love for the United States, he is at his most eloquent and inspiring, passionately endorsing American values and democracy to the nation and the world at large.

"Failure at some point in your life is inevitable, but giving up is unforgivable."