The Age of Enlightenment was a philosophical movement which dominated and changed many of the ideas held in Europe during the 18th century. The main goals of Enlightenment thinkers were progress, reason, tolerance, liberty, and ending the abuses by the church and state.
The ideas of the Enlightenment were spread from Europe to America by Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin. They came to Europe from America and participated in the science and political debates. They then returned to America and many of the ideals of the Enlightenment were incorporated into the Declaration of Independence
Extended family often played a large role in colonial family life. In poorer families, it was not uncommon for grandparents, aunts or uncles to live in the household. Wealthier families often found themselves taking in children from less fortunate family members to help with their breeding and education.
