Tattoos have been around since ancient times, with the oldest known examples dating back to at least 3000 BC. Tattoos were used by many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, the Greeks, and the Romans, as a way to show social status, to mark rites of passage, and to commemorate special occasions. Tattoos also had spiritual and religious significance, and were used to ward off evil or to protect against disease. Over time, tattoos have evolved to become a form of self-expression, and today they are widely accepted and have become increasingly popular.