Native American Tattoos

Native American tattoos were distinctive to each tribe.  They were

also distinctive to each clan in Eastern United States.

A member of the Bear Clan may have a

bear on him to show his affiliation with

that clan and rank within it.  The bear

was symbolic. 

It protected its clan brothers and helped them in times of great

trouble.

Tick marks on the leg would often be used like notches on a gun. 

That was how many people the warrior had killed. 

These tattoos would be understood by anyone seeing them. 

Whether they were from the same tribe or not.  So long as they

came from the same region.

Tattooing was also done for medicinal reasons.  Some tribes would

tattoo a small circle on each temple to ward off painful headaches. 

Or a cross on the cheek to ward off painful toothaches.

On the other hand each tribe would have tattooing particular to it.

So if you are thinking about getting a tattoo because your

grandmother was Sioux.  Make sure she was Sioux and not

something else.  You would hate to find out later that you had your

grandmother's tribal enemies tattooing on your face.

What you can do is get a generic Indian tattoo to show your affinity

or allegiance to your heritage.  Or, if your not Indian, just to show

your respect for their traditions and values.

This can be anything.  Find a portrait that you like and have it put

on you. Get a feather put on you.  Just make sure you don't have the

wrong tribe or clan or rank of tattoo put on you.  One of your best

bets may be to attend a Pow-Wow.   

Like all other tats, Native American tattoos mean whatever the wearer says they mean.

Indian Nation Flags.....Scroll to bottom for signs

Native American Tattoos to Tribal Tattoos

Native American Tattoos to tattoo-body-art.com