During ancient times tattoos were a sign of ownership, tribe, strength, devotion, and personal liberty among many others. They carry historical and cultural significance.

But it wasn't just men who had tattoos. Ancient women also had their bodies inked, usually as an expression and symbol of independence. A perfect example would be the upper class women of the Victorian era who had their skins decorated in tattoos to symbolize power and individuality.

Here are 16 women from the early 1900s to the 1960s with amazingly noteworthy tattoos:

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

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Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

Vintage Everyday

H/T Atchuup