Page 345 - Sociology and You

Chapter 10 Inequalities of Gender and Age 315
Another Time
In the northern [Native American] Plains cul- tures, certain women adopted elements of male social behavior, acting aggressive and domi-
neering. The Blackfoot called them ninau- poskitzipxe, which means literally “the manly hearted women.” Women ordinarily were passive and docile, but manly hearted women were ag- gressive and outspoken in public affairs. At the same time they were wives and mothers and were involved in female tasks.
Manly hearted women were invariably wealthy, due in large part to their own industry. They could tan more buffalo robes and produce better quality and greater amounts of quill and beadwork than other women. Many were also medicine women, which not only enhanced their status but also brought them additional wealth. Their wealth was a key factor in their relations with men, because among the Blackfoot wealth and generosity were more highly regarded than bravery and war deeds in determining social status.
Because of their wealth and industry, manly hearted women were major economic assets to their husbands, and thus desirable wives. These same characteristics also made them independent. Within the family a manly hearted woman had an equal say, if not the dominant voice. As a Blackfoot once commented . . . , “It’s easy to spot a manly hearted woman; the husband simply has nothing to say.” Not only did they retain control of their own wealth, but they frequently controlled the property of their husbands as well. Because they were economically more self-sufficient than other women, many manly hearted women chose to divorce their husbands and support their chil- dren by their own industry.
Their public behavior also distinguished them. Their wealth made it possible for them always to dress in the finest clothes. Whereas other women modestly covered themselves with shawls and blankets, manly hearted women usually did not.
Manly Hearted Women
The Blackfoot Indians thought manly hearted women made good wives.
Whereas most women were retiring and quiet in public discussions, manly hearted women joined in and even argued with others, “just as though they were men.” Whereas other women were shy at dances, manly hearted women aggressively chose their own partners. They were known for their sharp and cutting remarks, and it was said that a manly hearted woman would “take no lip” from either a man or another woman.
Source: Excerpted from James Peoples and Garrick Bailey, Humanity (Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, 2000), pp. 164–165.
Thinking It Over
How would you use this manly hearted women story to argue that gender identity of American women is not biologically determined?