When the Native Americans were victorious, they would give the hero of the battle a special tattoo to show their heroism. It is not a secret that many Native American men had to fight against other tribes and white settlers. People also got tattoos of animals that they were associated with or wanted to possess their abilities. Many people believed their tattoo would provide them with powers and strength. Some signified a connection to nature or the region in which the tribe resides.
Many of these tattoos were a representation of heritage and tribe loyalty. The reasons and meanings behind these Native American tattoos vary from tribe to tribe. Specifically, tattoos in Native American history have cultural significance contrasting some modern-day tattooing practices.
Tattoos had multiple purposes, and their meanings were unique to each culture or group of people that had them. These discoveries showed that tattoos were used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes because they were located in common acupuncture points. The first tattoo was found on a mummy dated back to 6000 BC. Tattoos have been prevalent throughout history. Native American tattoos have incorporated body art into the Native American culture since the beginning of time.
