The word tattoo comes from the Tahitian "tatu" which means "to mark
something." It is arguably claimed that tattooing has existed since 12,000 years BC.
The purpose of tattooing has varied from culture to culture and its place on the time
line. But there are similarities that prevail form the earliest known tattoos to those being
performed on people around the world today.
Tattoos have always had an important role in ritual and tradition. In Borneo,
women tattooed symbols on their forearm indicating their particular skill. If a
woman wore a symbol indicating she was a skilled weaver, her status as prime
marriageable material was increased. Tattoos around the wrist and fingers were
believed to ward away illness.
Throughout history tattoos have signified membership in a clan or society. Even
today groups like the Hells Angels tattoo their particular group symbol. TV and
movies have used the idea of a tattoo indication membership in a secret......
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