Some people seem to think that tattoos were for the ruffians and undesirables in the past, but that simply was not the case. Tattoos were rather common and mainstream. Some people would get their social security numbers tattooed on their bodies, while others preferred to get symbols put on them. Whatever the case, tattoos were popular among the society ladies as well as the sailors.
1. Wrapped Snake
This illustration of a popular snake tattoo was published in 1905. [1]
2. Ankles to Neck
This 1907 photo shows a man who is covered in symbol tattoos from ankles to neck. [2]
3. Lady Art
Contrary to popular belief, many women received tattoos in the past. This tattoo was done in 1936. [3]
4. Boyfriend Tattoo
In this 1938 photo, a woman shows off a tattoo of a childhood boyfriend. [4]
5. Shorter Skirts
As the skirt trend became shorter, more women were showing off their leg tattoos. This article is from 1938. [5]
6. War Tattoo
In 1939, soldiers were getting their names and regimental numbers tattooed on their arms. [6]
7. Flags
Flag tattoos won out heart tattoos in 1940. [7]
8. Rock of Ages
Woman getting a full back tattoo in 1946. [8]
9. Tattooing for Teenagers
Tattoos for teens was popular in the fifties. [9]
10. Blood Type
The Civilian Defense Committee in Chicago asked people to get their blood types tattooed onto their skin in 1950. [10]
