History of Tattoos

       First off, the word tattoo came from the Tahitian term "Tatua" which means "to mark."

       Different practices of tattoo art have been experienced for centuries by many different cultures all over the world.  The first tattoo is said to be documented by the Egyptians in 4000 B.C.  The Japanese began tattooing around in 500 B.C.  The art of tattooing began in America by immigrants in the early 1800s.  Martin Hildebrandt, a German immigrant, was the first professional tattooist in the United States.  Every single tattoo was done by hand with a long needle.  In 1891, the first electric tattoo machine was invented.  This made life a lot easier.  Samuel O'reilly had the first documented tattoo parlor to open in New York City. 
       Tattoos had been used for many different ways for individuals to express themselves such as religion, feelings, and style.  They even used tattoos to punish the criminals.  The art of tattooing is growing everyday.  It is a form of art that was once looked down upon and very rare; and today growing into something popular and more common into todays society.  I believe it is a way to show someone who you are without speaking.  The future of tattoos will be accepted no matter what your profession may be.                        



This is ancient tattooing that took many hours to complete because these tattoos were all done by hand.  The tattooist had to have a very steady hand when doing this.