Most people of all social classes in 19th century Paris lived in patriarchal, extended families with or near their relatives; they cared for and supported one another during good and difficult times. In general, female relatives cared for the children and the elderly. Most women married, while men remained the primary wage earners. The male role as a good provider emerged in the 19th century as women were relegated to household and domestic chores. Technology brought mechanical devices into the home, but time spent by women on household labor did not decline appreciably. Humanitarian protests against the treatment of women and children in factories led to legislation restricting women and children from dangerous and heavy occupations, required minimum age, and limited maximum hours.