Missionaries and tattooing

Historically, many missionaries traveled to different cultures to spread their religious beliefs and sometimes introduce new practices, including tattooing. In some regions, missionaries viewed traditional tattooing as a cultural or spiritual expression, while others attempted to discourage or suppress it due to differing beliefs. Conversely, in certain cases, missionaries or their missions adopted or adapted local tattooing customs to foster connections or integrate into communities. Overall, the relationship between missionaries and tattooing reflects a complex interaction between cultural preservation, religious influence, and efforts to promote or challenge local traditions.