It seems like decades ago, in America, tattoos were commonly associated with bikers, gang members, and convicts. They were certainly not as popular and accepted as they have become today. The truth is, tattoos have been around for centuries. Even 3000 years before Christ, kings had tattoos to demonstrate their rank and authority. When the European explorers crossed the Pacific Ocean, they traveled to Tahiti, where many of it’s people had exquisite tattoos, as well as Indian Tribes, to demonstrate their tribal rite. Thus, the name tattoo was born, which in the Tahitian language means to “mark”.

Chinese and Japanese tattoos have become very well known for their artistic beauty and flair. A friend of mine has a beautiful Chinese symbol on her back which represents friendship and love. The Chinese and Japanese Calligraphies are exotic and mysterious which enhances the desire for these beautiful symbols. However, it is important to do the proper research of these languages as you would not like to have a permanent mark on your body which had a meaning you might not understand and later regret.

Many African cultures and tribes have been featured on the covers and pages of National Geographic and other highly revered magazines displaying their distinguished marks of family, tribes, and accomplishments. These tattoos have been around for hundreds of years. The popularity has grown from centuries ago, and spread to European, Mideastern, South American, North American, Asian, Austrailian countries and many other countries and cultures throughout the world.

Chances are, many of your favorite celebrities have at least one tattoo. In the music and entertainment world, some of the celebrities that have tattoos are: Pamela Anderson, Kid Rock, Angelina Jolie, Cher, Brad Pitt, Ben Affleck, Robert Dinero, Johnny Depp, Jennifer Aniston, Beyonce, Eminem, Xzibit, 50 Cent, Nelly, Usher, Mark Wahlberg, Diddy, Billy Idol, Anna Kournikova, Dwayne Johnson-The Rock, Kanye West, Missy Elliot, Michael Jordan, Paris Hilton, Madonna, Rosie O’Donnell, Whoopi Goldberg.and Halle Berry, just to name a few. The list goes on and on Even Franklin D. Roosevelt, Sir Winston Churchill, and Thomas Edison had tattoos. But how can I even mention the word tattoo, without including rockers Tommy Lee, and Dave Navarro, and members of Green Day, Limp Bizkit, and Blink 182? They are covered with some pretty wild and awesome tattoos!

Whether you are famous or not, for most people, tattoos have a special meaning and have gained a new understanding and acceptance. It is a representation of what you want people to know about you and what you stand for. A tattoo is a message about you, to yourself and others. So take your time in choosing the one that is right for YOU.