subject: History of Tattoos [print this page] History of Tattoos History of Tattoos
The word Tattoo in Delhi is said to has two major derivations- from the polynesian word ta' which means striking something and the tahitian word tatau' which means to mark something'. The history of tattoo began over 5000 years ago and is as diverse as the people who wear them. Tattoos are created by inserting colored materials beneath the skins surface. The popularity of tattooing during the latter part of the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth century owed much to the circus. when circuses prospered, tattooing prospered. For over 70 years every major circus employed several completely tattooed people. some were exhibited in sideshows; others performed traditional circus acts such as juggling and sword swallowing. Tattoos have always had an important role in ritual and tradition. In Borneo, gals & women tattooed their symbols on their forearm representing their particular skill. If a woman wore a symbol indicating she was a skilled weaver or have any other talent, her status as prime marriageable material was improved. 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 indicating membership in a secret society numerous times. It has been believed that the wearer of an image calls the spirit of that image. The ferocity of a tiger would belong to the tattooed person. The Greeks used tattooing for communication among spies. Markings identified the spies and showed their rank. Romans marked criminals and slaves. This practice is still carried on today. The Ainu people of western Asia used tattooing to show social status. Girls coming of age were marked to announce their place in society, as were the married women. The Ainu are noted for introducing tattoos to Japan where it developed into a religious and ceremonial rite. In Borneo, women were the tattooists. It was a cultural tradition. They created designs indicating the owner's station in life and the tribe he belonged to. Kayan women had delicate arm tattoos which looked like lacy gloves. Dayak warriors who had "taken a head" had tattoos on their hands. The tattoos garnered respect and assured the owners status for life. Polynesians developed tattoos to mark tribal communities, families, and rank. They brought their art to New Zealand and developed a facial style of tattooing called Moko which is still being used today. Facts states that Mayan, Incas, and Aztecs used tattooing in the ceremonies. While tattooing diminished in the west, it flourished in Japan. At first, tattoos were used to mark criminals. First offences were marked with a line across the forehead. A second offence was marked by adding an arch. A third offence was marked by another line. Together these marks formed the Japanese character for "dog". It appears this was the original "Three strikes your out" law. In time, the Japanese escalated the tattoo to an aesthetic art form. The Japanese body suit originated around 1700 as a reaction to strict laws concerning conspicuous consumption. Only royalty were allowed to wear ornate clothing. As a result of this, the middle class decorated themselves with elaborate full body tattoos. In some cultures, tattooing was done for status within the culture, or rank if you will. It was a very sacred and valued art. The word tattoo comes from the Tahitian "tatu" which means "to mark something." It is debatably claimed that tattooing has existed since 12,000 years BC. The purpose of tattooing varies from culture to culture and its place on the time line.
