There is no historical evidence that agricultural societies were patriarchal, nor that females were viewed as property of the male head of the household. If we look at survived native cultures, the key observation is culture and traditional gave women and men separated roles and responsibilities with the elders of each as guides and authority. The elder women decided, taught and guide the other women and girls in the group, while the elder men did the same for the men and boys. Men were not allowed to interfere with the domain of the elder women, and women were not allowed to interfere within the domain of the elder men.

In order for it to be a fiercely patriarchal where females were viewed as property of the male head of the household, it would mean that men had the power to decide what women should and should not do. This fly in contrast to when culture and tradition fully dictate how people should live their life.