The reason for it was clear.

The Washoes were surrounded by people with whom they were often at war.

Indian warfare takes no cognizance of sex or its special disabilities.

In order that their women should not be regarded as _hors de combat_, or enfeebled, at such times and thus hamper the movement of the tribe in case a sudden flight was needed, the shamans or medicine men taught that strength, activity and vigor were just as possible at that time as any other.

"Those Above" commanded that it be so.