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Tattoo is claimed by many enthusiasts as having survived for over 14,000 years. Well, the evidences pointing to their claims are not entirely dismissible. Uncovered mummies belonging to 12000 BC show dot patterns on their bodies. These tattoos, which are said to be the earliest evidences, are similar to the patterns on the contemporary figurines. A closer study by the archeologists suggests that they have relation to the era of Goddess Hathor. Some heavily tattooed mummies were also found from the same era.

Is Tattoo A Fad?
Well, tattoo has been creating ripples in some circles of late. From the early 1950s it was symbolically regarded as a distinct mark of identification by gangs. This perhaps explains why this was most popular in and around Texas. Nevertheless, tattooing is popular around the globe. Asia has nurtured tattoo culture through the history till it traveled across pacific before reaching the American shores.

The present day tattoo culture symbolizes freedom of expression. It is particularly the cool in thing with the younger generation in the entertainment and adventure professions. These are the people who can proudly sport their tattoos on their bear shoulders, arms and chests.

Tattoo Art and Tools
None of the beautiful things in this world comes cheap. If there is something that is preventing tattoo from being widespread, it is the slow torturous pains that one has to bear for having her tattoo. Before Samuel O'Rtiely patented the electric tattoo machine in 1891, each puncture was being painstakingly hand made and then inked. Traditionally, tools were of bronze and copper, sometimes unpolished. Tools made from bones are still not unusual in tribal areas of Asia.

Interestingly, tattoo which enjoyed patronage from the affluent class till the rising of the electric machine gradually lost their support and became a common place. Fast tattooing and affordability provided by the machine brought average person closer to tattoos. What is equally interesting is despite a lowly cultural showing and going underground for sometime, tattoo could make a spectacular comeback.

Tattoo; thy name is survival!