Tattoo: How Did Tattoos Originate?

Believe it or not, some scientists say that certain marks on the skin of the Iceman, a mummified human body dating from about 3300 B.C., are tattoos. If that's true, these markings represent the earliest known evidence of the practice. More widely recognized are tattoos found on Egyptian and Nubian mummies dating from about 2000 B.C. Classical authors mention the use of tattoos in connection with Greeks, ancient Germans, Gauls, Thracians and ancient Britons. But with the growth of Christianity, tattooing was forbidden in Europe. The practice continued in the Middle East and other parts of the world. (Interestingly, tattoos seemed to be missing among populations with the darkest skin colour and in most of China until more recent centuries.)
 

    Tattooing
    Tattoo: History
    Is Tattooing Safe?
    How Did Tattoos Originate?
    Tattoo: On Hand & Foot
    Tattoo Healing and Aftercare
    Tattoo Safety Advice
    Tattoo: Care Advice
    Tattoo / Tattooing: Precautions to be taken:
    How do you remove a tattoo?