The practice of leaving babies to sleep outside in cold weather is a tradition that dates back to the early 20th century in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark... The idea is that exposing children to fresh air, even in sub-zero temperatures, can boost their immune system and make them healthier.
During the American Civil War, diarrhea was the leading cause of death. Soldiers adhered to a code of honor, refraining from shooting at those in the midst of nature's call. Of the nearly 750,000 soldiers who perished, 95,000 succumbed to diarrhea or dysentery. (Read more in 1st comment)