They took on responsibilities traditionally associated with men. For a time, they were the heads of families, managing land and businesses. They were the ones who used their intellect to manage their finances and their physical strength, both in the agricultural fields and on the battlefields. Sometimes they weren't presented as the "weaker sex", and even when they were, they used it to their advantage to gain key information needed to win battles. These women were determined and reliable, helping in countless ways; many of them even risked their own lives while carrying out their "patriotic mission ».