Final answer:
The major religious denominations in the 18th-century colonies with significant societal roles were the Puritans in New England, Quakers in Pennsylvania, and Anglicans in Virginia. These groups influenced governance and social norms, with religious freedom being a central motivational and practical aspect of colonial life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major religious denominations of the 18th-century colonies that had significant roles in early American society were the Puritans, Quakers, and Anglicans. The Puritans were primarily concentrated in New England, with a focus on a community structured around strict religious observance. The Quakers, known for their pacifist principles, settled predominantly in Pennsylvania and promoted religious tolerance. Anglicans, associated with the Church of England, were prevalent in colonies such as Virginia. Each of these groups played a crucial role in shaping the societal norms and governance of their respective colonies. Religious freedom was a key motivation for settlers, and as colonial America developed, a variety of faiths existed alongside one another necessitating a degree of religious tolerance.