History of Gangs and Tattooing

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In years past, tattoos have often been a symbol of membership, of citizenship, - part of a tribe, gangs, and clubs.  This is the stereotypical American that mainstream thought of when they pictured tattooed people.  Tattoos have come a long way since then, with mainstream being the largest group getting tattoos now.  Never say never. 

Years ago, cons, prisoners were part of the sterotypical group getting homemade tats in prison.  There is a big difference between prison tattoo quality and professional shop quality.  The tools, the ink, the circumstances. gang tattoo gun

Gangs use various tattoo symbols to represent a badge - such as  a tear drop, or a spider web under the eye representing  prison time served. The meaning of gang tattoos have changed and evolved over the years. Tattooing their names in a large old English style font, on a curved baseline is popular.

One of the key reason for not getting a prison tattoo - the sterile factor.  Often the needles are used repeatedly.  There are no means to sterilize any part of the machine.  Very dangerous. Although, I have to admit, I have seen tattoo work and it was amazingly good. The artist had learned to work FAST, under pressure, and did beautiful work.

In a rare case of common sense, Canada started a pilot program that basically set up a tattoo parlor prison program. Teach inmates a trade, use sterile conditions which brought down HIV and other blood related diseases, it seemed like a win, win situation. But word got out in the public and everyone had a fit and the program was discontinued. Heaven forbid we use some common sense.

Sites Related to Gangs and Tattoos

Gangs or Us | Gang Ink | Chicago Gangs