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3200 BCE
Ötzi
The world's oldest mummy is tattooed with 60 lines and crosses across his lower spine, right knee, and ankle joints. link text -
3000 BCE
Tech Evolution 1
Delivery of tattoos changes as multiple needs are connected and tapped with a hammer type tool. This allows for finer strokes for the pigmented sinew to be sown under skin. link text -
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Innovations
Thomas Edison's electric pen is modified by Samuel O'Reilly, who patents the first electric tattoo machine. link text -
Developments
By adding electromagnetic coils on a frame, an on/off switch, and a spark shield, Percy Waters continues to develop tattoo technology. link text -
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Legal Trouble
Charlie Wagner fined for not sterilizing his needles. This is the first of many instances of legal trouble. Link text -
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Health Scare
Prompted by the hepatitis-B scare, the New York City Health Department bans tattooing. link text -
A New Shop
Realistic Tattoo opens in San Francisco. It is the first custom-only, appointment-only studio in the United States. link text -
Conventions and Tech
The National Tattoo Association organizes the first National Convention of tattoo artists and fans, three years after it is formed. link text
Carol Nightingale opens the doors for modern tattooing's capabilities by making an adjustable gun that is more precise, allowing for permanent makeup to be applied. link text -
Tattoos are Forever?
A longer lasting and better looking temporary tattoo is invented and patented. link text -
Your Concerns are Very Important to Us
To address health and safety issues, the Alliance of Professional Tattooists is established as a non-profit. link text -
Legalize!!
In a 38-7 vote, New York passes a bill to legalize tattooing. There were an estimated 50 illegally-operating tattooists at the time.
A few months later, New York holds its first tattoo convention.
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Double Take
Ed Hardy Vintage Tattoo Wear is launched, which features the artwork of the famed tattooist. link text -
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