The history of tattoos is long and colorful. Tattoos are permanent markings that are placed on the body. In centuries past some tattoos were created utilizing the ashes of the dead, as a tribute to the deceased loved one and a means of mourning and remembrance for the individual left alive. Considering that prehistoric times tattoos have been used for several reasons, and in almost every region on the planet. Some of these markings were voluntary and some were forced, and tattoos meant various things during different eras and in different communities.

Mummies which go back thousands of years have been discovered with tattoos, some with only a few of these markings bit others that were heavily inked. Going back to before 1,000 BC criminals and undesirable types in China were visibly tattooed to make certain that everyone recognized these individuals for what they were. This practice was not just reserved for people who were low type, many books of Chinese literature describe tattoos which were meant to show devotion, love, or any other traits.

The history of tattoos in most nations is a positive one. India, the Philippines, Egypt, the Middle East, Northern Africa, and many other areas of the globe have a long history of tattoos employed for decorating the body or signifying spiritual commitment. Native American Indian tribes often tattooed captured settlers the same way that the tribes tattooed associates. These tattoos were regarded sacred and beautifying.

Native tribes in the Amazon rain forests have already been noticed as lately as just a couple years ago, and many of these tribes have members with facial and body tattoos which are evidently visible. In a few regions previously slaves were tattooed to identify the person as property and specify the owner. This was true in most cultures and did not happen only to slaves brought from Africa. The practice was common in China and other areas as well.

These markings meant many different things in the past, but these days tattoos are a form of self expression and body art which is broadly recognized. A lot of corporate executives and wealthy people have more than one tattoos, although these may not be in highly visible locations.