Newbie Questions

Hello, played this game during my childhood days. Just got back and finally trying to learn on how to properly play the game.

Tried doing expert after a few games on moderate and was surprised at how fast they go. My questions are: 1.can most people beat expert mode or is it really just hard for most people? 2.how do you guys usually play early game (more specifically, settler usage)?

The military I can fairly understand but I seem to be lagging on the resource management since I need at least 5 mins to get to Colonial age. I mainly play as the British or French.

Any advice is welcome.