History of tattoos

The history of tattooing began over 5000 years ago, as the first form of body art. Egyptians were among the first people that decorated their bodies even since the time of the pyramids. Still, there are evidence that tattoos have existed since the bronze age. In 1991, the frozen body of a five thousand year old tattooed man was found between Austria and Italy. His skin had 57 tattoos! Researchers speculate that they were applied to treat arthritis.

In Ancient Egypt, tattooed bodies were discovered as early as the XI dynasty. This practice later expanded all over the world and by 2,000 BC this art had spread to Southeast Asia. Pacific cultures believed that a man's force of life was represented through the tattoos he wore. The Hawaiians refined their own form of tattooing, that was believed to protect their health and family. Western missionaries caused Hawaiians, upon their arrival, to give up this art form since most churches condemned it.

The word tattoo is derived from the Samoan or the Tahitian word tatau, that means to mark or strike twice. For some people, tattoos have become parts of their religious beliefs. The first tattoo machine was invented during the Victorian times, its design remaining basically unchanged until today. Still, the past century witnessed the disappearance of many tattoo practices, most common in the South Pacific island cultures.

The modern tattoo trend has its roots in the 1960s. People with an affinity for art began to paint their creations on people's skin. Many tribal models started to gain popularity even though they have no significant historic significance. What to many once seemed a trivial thing has truly become an integral part of new generation fashion and culture!