People often associate those who have tattoos with criminal activity or being socially outcast. That misconception is rapidly changing as more and more people from all walks of life are wearing tattoos. This form of body modification has always been a part of society and culture.

Over the years tattoos have taken on various roles of significance in a multitude of cultures. For some they were a mark that you had achieved a specific rite of passage. In others they denoted what tribe or clan you belonged to. Still in others they illustrated what skills you carried. They were even believed to ward off disease and illness in some spiritual groups.

Research has indicated that some of the earliest tattoos were used in ancient Egypt at the time of the the construction of the pyramids. They are were used there to mark the peasants and slaves. It is likely however that they were used even earlier this.

Beyond Egypt, the ritual of tattoo went on to China and from there on to Greece. Here it was used as a means of communication among spies. The Japanese discovered tattoos and used them in religious ceremonies. Unfortunately at this time, infection from tattoos was very common. The strict sterilization procedures that are in place today did not exist then.

Tattoos really exploded in popularity in the late 1960s. They became very prominent with bikers and gangs, symbolizing membership which led to their outlaw stigma. That is not the really case though as almost half of all Americans have at least a single tattoo.

Everyday people are getting a tattoo as a form of self expression and to tell to the world something about themselves. Some are designed to mark a special occasion, while others pay tribute to a loved one. The choices are limitless. The Web has made browsing design ideas even easier with several thriving online tattoo communities. Here artists and fans alike share inspiration and swap pictures. If you are undecided this will certainly give you plenty to consider.