What is a traditional barber's pole said to symbolize?

The traditional barber's pole symbolizes the blood and bandages of surgical procedures. Historically, barbers also served as surgeons and performed medical tasks such as bloodletting and minor surgeries. The red and white stripes of the pole represent the blood (red) and the bandages (white) associated with these procedures. This symbolism reflects the dual role that barbers played in society prior to the specialization of medical professions. Over time, as the profession evolved and barbers shifted focus mainly to grooming and haircuts, the pole remained as a significant emblem of their historical roots.

The other options do not accurately capture the historical significance or traditional meaning associated with the barber's pole. While tools of the trade, strength and masculinity, or the variety of services may be relevant to barbers alluding to their craft, they do not tie back to the original symbolism of the pole itself. This makes the correct association with blood and bandages particularly poignant in understanding the evolution of barbers and their practices.