Axia College of University of Phoenix
Contents
1. Introduction 3
2. History of Gangs 4
3. Prison Gang Names 4
4. Gang Specific Tattoos 6
5. Special Markings 7
6. Equipment 8
7. The difference Between Prison Gang Tattoos and Tattoos in Society 9
8. Conclusion 10
9. References 11
Introduction
Today 's prison gang tattoos has a big contrasting difference than those in our society. Did you know that sixteen percent of the world’s population has at least one tattoo? Differentiating between the tattoos will help understand the lifestyle or culture of the tattooed world. Knowing what to look for in a tattoo might help for a better understanding of tattoos and maybe even an acceptance of tattoos. Understanding and expanding knowledge of tattoos will also help point out those tattoos that are related to prison/gang tattoos and those that maybe just an ordinary tattoo.
History of Prison Gangs
Prison gangs are not just a part of prison life, but the lifestyle of someone in prison. The first prison gangs were noted in the 1950’s in California. The separation of the Whites, Blacks, and the Hispanics North and South, was the start of these prison gangs.
These well organized crime rings kept those and those alike together, but also kept those apart who were different. Joining such gang is a decision for life. Their loyalty belonged to the gang. Their brotherhood was all they had left to hold onto while incarcerated.
The Mexican Mafia was considered to be one of the first known prison gangs. They mark themselves with tattoos to separate or let other know who they are. These distinctive markings would either save them from harm or put them away for life. “LA EME” could be one of the markings that are specific to this prison gang.
The Texas Syndicate was also considered to be one of the first known prison gangs. The
References: 1. Gang Ink. Retrieved September 23, 2007, from http://www.gangink.com/ 2. Security Threat Group Unit, Retrieved September 23, 2007, from http://www.azcorrections.gov/adc/divisions/support/stg.asp 3. Gang and Prison Tattoos, Bloods & Crips, Norteños & Sureños, Retrieved September 23, 2007, From http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/gangs.html 4. Gangs are Us, retrieved September 23,2007, from http://www.gangsorus.com/index.html