Explore North Carolina's Fascinating Colonial History
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Customs and CultureIn colonial North Carolina, men were considered the heads of the household. Women were expected to be submissive towards their husbands, though men were expected to consult with their wives on matters that would affect the house. Women also had on average 7-10 children, often having children into their forties. These children were traditionally dressed in gender-neutral clothing until they were four years old, to signify that they were not yet adults. When they turned four, they were dressed in clothing like that of adults and expected to work. Boys would help their fathers and work on the farm (or at their father's business, if they did not have a farm), and girls would help their mothers around the house. Even when these children became adults and moved out, it was expected that they would ask their parents for help and advice.
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