what made us light candles outside our home during Nov. 1 and 2?

I think some will light candles in remembering the celebrations of all souls and all saints day. They light candle in respect of the holiday celebrated.

We don't usually light candles outside the house just inside. But last year we put floating candles on a big basin and floated some flowers too to commemorate the deaths of our loved ones. The lighting of candles outside the house was just another way of lighting candles. But I think most people light candles outside to ward off evil spirits or a symbol that the souls departed can see they were remembered. I really don't know.

Some people believe that lighting a candle will bring the souls back. I don't know if that might be the reason or not, but is the only tradition I have heard of that might apply.