| A Brief Tattoo History |
| Written by Michael Gandy | |
| Saturday, 14 March 2009 | |
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There are a lot of negative connotations associated with tattoos. Often those people who have tattoos are stereotyped as being criminals or otherwise socially deviant. In reality tattoos are worn by people from all walks of life and have always been a part of society in one form or another.
There are a lot of negative connotations associated with tattoos. Often those people who have tattoos are stereotyped as being criminals or otherwise socially deviant. In reality tattoos are worn by people from all walks of life and have always been a part of society in one form or another. Over the years tattoos have taken on various roles of significance in a multitude of cultures. For some they were a mark that you had achieved a specific rite of passage. In others they denoted what tribe or clan you belonged to. Still in others they illustrated what skills you carried. They were even believed to ward off disease and illness in some spiritual groups. Some of the earliest tattoos were worn by the ancient Egyptians. They used them to mark their peasants and slaves during the construction of the pyramids. While these are some of the earliest tattoos research has uncovered, it is likely they were used even earlier than this. Beyond Egypt, the ritual of tattoo went on to China and from there on to Greece. Here it was used as a means of communication among spies. The Japanese discovered tattoos and used them in religious ceremonies. Unfortunately at this time, infection from tattoos was very common. The strict sterilization procedures that are in place today did not exist then. Since really taking off in popularity in the later part of the sixties, tattoos have taken Americans by storm. In fact almost half of all Americans have one or more tattoos. This is a big leap from the initial prominence they had with bikers and gangs, who originally used them to symbolize membership. Everyday people are getting a tattoo as a form of self expression and to tell to the world something about themselves. Some are designed to mark a special occasion, while others pay tribute to a loved one. The choices are limitless. The Web has made browsing design ideas even easier with several thriving online tattoo communities. Here artists and fans alike share inspiration and swap pictures. If you are undecided this will certainly give you plenty to consider. The Article Author: Visit Michael's blog for printable zodiac tattoo, including links to download an pisces tattoo design. |
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