American traditional tattoos are now world-famous and very fashionable.
Over the years, this type of ink has spread across cultures and countries due to its iconic designs and remarkable symbolism. If you’re looking to get one, here’s a quick description and symbolism of the various types of American traditional tattoos.
8 Types of American Traditional Tattoos
1. HAWAII TATTOOS
Hawaii tattoos are some of the most remarkable American traditional tattoos. While the native Hawaiians are known for their unique Polynesian tattoo designs, over the years, several other tattoos have spread across the island. American traditional tattoos are now part of the key tattoos on the island depicting various iconic themes, reflecting various parts of nature, experiences, animals, and so much more.
Related Read: If you’re getting your first tattoo on the island, here’s how to prepare for it.
2. ANCHOR TATTOOS
At the ocean, the anchor is regarded as one of the most secure objects a sailor can think of, making it an key object of stability. This explains why sailors have anchor tattoos on their body parts with the text of whoever they are missing or cherish such as “mom” or “sweetheart.”
Today, anchors are really popular within general tattoo cultures. But the symbolism is still similar depicting stability, reliability, trust, and more.
3. SWALLOW TATTOOS
Swallow tattoos are trendy among sailors. Most often than not, swallow tattoos are indications that a sailor has sailed 5000 miles or more. Swallow tattoos are also linked with the idea of return. The return symbolism is etched in two ideas. The first was the bird’s migration prowess and ability to always return home to San Juan Capistrano. Also, sailors believed that if a sailor dies at sea, swallows convey his soul home to heaven.
4. SHARK TATTOOS
Most shark tattoos aren’t just about the love of the fish. But about their traits. Just like lions often depict bravery and panthers depict toughness, a shark tattoo often symbolizes what the wearer has overcome over time.
A shark tattoo on any of your body parts most likely means you’re willing to stand your ground regardless. It also means you’re not going to end up as someone else’s food no matter what.
5. SKULL TATTOOS
Skull tattoos are some of the most symbolic American traditional tattoos. These tattoos often symbolize death – the end of every life on earth but skull tattoos are also iconic emblems of ancient warriors, explorers, mercenaries, or war. Skull tattoos are now well-known across the world and are either inked alone or combined with other types of tattoos to make their symbolism even stronger, such as a skull tattoo along with a Polynesian tattoo or a Japanese traditional tattoo.
6. MILITARY TATTOOS
Military tattoos are iconic American traditional tattoos. These tattoos are often inked to depict the various traits of the famous American military. Some tattoos are inked to depict trust, bravery, platoons, ship, war, experience, weapons, flight crew, locations, and more.
7. EAGLE TATTOOS
The eagle tattoo is one of the most famous American traditional tattoos. The American eagle is an emblem of honor, intelligence, prowess, and bravery. This iconic tattoo has been inked in various forms, shapes, colors, and styles over the years. But the symbolism is similar, and it’s ever-trendy and fashionable.
8. SHIP TATTOOS
Ships symbolize many things for sailors including life and death. Ships also depict the call to adventure and the resolve to be homeward bound. Sailors are among the first people to ink tattoos on their body parts. As they travel far and wide, they meet various people from various cultures including people with tattoos.