Hi Joel

>Impossible question, but please give me some thoughts.
>
>What is the EASIEST to use set of third party foundation classes to develop a simple database system?

As you said, an impossible question to answer. What is a "simple database system'? As a disinterested party (I neither sell nor use 3rd party frameworks) the first thing you need to do is to define exactly what it is that you are trying to achieve. Next, check the Wiki and see which of the frameworks described there best fits your requirements. Finally get a copy and start playing with it.

After all, the only way you can really find out how "easy" it is will be by trying it. The snag is that unless you have lots of time, the learning curve involved in getting to grips with any framework is such that you really won't want to do it more than once, so do try and ensure that the one you go for will actually meet your specific needs