Tattooing is an art form that has been in existence for thousands of years. Recently tattooing has come become more popular and acceptable in today's society. The history of tattooing is one of basic instincts and striving to create individuality for many, while for others it was about belonging to something more then one's self. Many people in today's society only see a tattoo as a fashion statement today. It is a trend that they feel does not mean more then the mark that it leaves on their skin. They are unaware of the long history of these ink markings. The history of tattooing is one that should be shared with all people who seek out a tattoo.

Tattoos have been in existence since before the time of Christ. Early tattoos were used to show who were important religious figures in the community. Tattooing has been found mummified remains of early man dating back to 5,000 years ago. Many believe that early tattoos were used to ward off evil beings. There were tattoos given to youths to show that they had become members of their tribes. There is a belief that the first tattoos were given to women in Egypt to protect them from childbirth.

Through trade the art of tattooing started to spread from its humble beginning as a way of tribes marking man hood and warding off evil spirits. With the rise of Christianity in Europe, tattooing started to become associated with criminals and what was deemed evil pagan ways. Tattoos were banned for a long time in Europe. It wasn't until much later that the western world slowly started to associate with tattoos again. British sailors traveling to Tahiti and other small island nations found islanders decorated in beautiful marking that they sought to have. Once again tattoos began to take on new meanings and grew to even more countries.

In the United States, tattoos were seen as a mark that people who were not accepted by society would place on themselves. This sub culture began to thrive and as more and more people used tattoos as a way to distinguish themselves the meaning behind them began to blur. The tattoo went from being a way to mark being an outsider to once again being a sign of belonging to another group. Today tattoos are used to commemorate special events, belonging, and just a love of the art form itself.

The history of tattooing is one that shows that the tattoos have may have changed but the reason for getting gone has not through the decades. A tattoo has been used for centuries to convey a special meaning from the wearer through a symbol or picture. Tattoos are more detailed and ornate then they have been in their long history. The tattoo may be different but the idea is the same to mark one's skin to convey a meaning. One thing is for sure in the ever-changing world of tattoos; the art of tattooing is here to stay.

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