During the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and the United States, the responsibilities of men typically centered around societal and economic roles rather than domestic ones. While there were some variations based on social class, geographical location, and cultural norms, the general expectations for men included:
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Providing Financial Support: Men were primarily viewed as breadwinners. Their main responsibility was to provide for their families financially, which often meant working outside the home in various occupations, such as farming, trades, or professional roles.
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Management of the Household: While men did not usually engage in daily domestic tasks, they were seen as the head of the household, making important decisions related to finances, property, and family matters.
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Educating and Disciplining Children: Men were responsible for the formal education of their sons and often played a significant role in instructing their daughters in moral and social conduct, although women typically took the lead in day-to-day childcare and education.
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Protection and Safety: Men were expected to provide a safe environment for their families, which involved protecting them against external threats and ensuring a stable home life.
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Limited Domestic Responsibilities: Cooking and cleaning were generally considered women's responsibilities. However, in some contexts, especially on farms or in lower-class families, men might have participated in some chores or shared responsibilities, but this was not the norm.
In summary, men were primarily responsible for economic provision, management of household affairs, and ensuring the family's safety, while domestic duties were largely assigned to women.
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