Дue to their historical importance and status, traditional Native Americans now consider the wearing of headdresses without the express permission of tribal leaders to be an affront to their culture and traditions. However, in recent years a few First Nations women who have attained a very high level of respect in their communities have been ceremonially gifted with headdresses of the type that were formerly only worn by men. While women have traditional regalia that can include other types of headdresses, historically women did not wear the most common style of Plains warbonnet. Several instances record how while wearing his war bonnet, he rode back and forth before soldiers of the United States Army and, despite being fired upon, was left unscathed. Roman Nose, who was one of the most influential Cheyenne warriors of the Plains Indian Wars of the 1860s, was known for his illustrious warbonnet that was said to protect him during battle. Historically, headdresses were usually reserved exclusively for the tribe's chosen political and spiritual leaders. When enough feathers were collected, they might be incorporated into a headdress or some other form of worn regalia. Historically, the warrior who was the first to touch an enemy in battle and escape unscathed received an eagle feather.

Dog Soldiers of the Cheyenne), only two or three honour feathers might be awarded in a person's whole lifetime. The esteem attached to eagle feathers is traditionally so high that in many cases, such as a warrior (e.g.

Traditional deeds that bring honour can include acts of valor in battle (including contemporary military service), but also political and diplomatic gains, or acts that helped their community survive and prosper. An honored person must have earned their feather through selfless acts of courage and honour, or been gifted them in gratitude for their work or service to their community or Nation. Many Native American tribes consider the presentation of an eagle feather to be one of the highest marks of respect. Unidentified Cree at a pow wow in Fort Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan

Wow crown of courage