claims outline

(first draft claims outline)

Main Claim:

            The tattoo in American culture has evolved tremendously over the past decade, increasing in popularity. Why has this occurred so rapidly and how have other cultures influenced this American art form?

Background Point Sentence

Americans have discovered a new appreciation for going under the ink, a cultural practice that has existed for centuries in other parts of the world. Author Victoria Pitts refers to this recent rise as a “tattoo renaissance”, as the definition and symbolism of tattoos has been altered through cultural diffusion (Pitts 2003 10-11).  The evidence of this evolution is seen in the change of popularity from traditional American tattoos to “tribal-style black work” tattoos (Pitts 10-11). 

Claim-Based Point Sentence

Black ink tattooing originated in Polynesia; this tribal artwork was brought to America by the military. The art of Samoan tribal was brought into America by the military, as stated by the Public Broadcasting Service “the most predominant style of tattooing, the armband, was originally developed as a "souvenir" for American Peace Corps workers returning to the United States.” (Public Broadcasting Service 2003). The introduction of Tribal tattoos by other cultures has offered Americans more choices and is a factor in their spiked interest. 

Claim-Based Point Sentence

            Tattoos have become popular among higher social classes because of their increased positive depiction in the media; magazines, websites, etc. 

Claim-Based Point Sentence

            Tattooing has become popular in modern times because the sanitation and quality of tattooing has increased. The risks have decreased as technology and the professionalism of this art form has evolved. 

Claim-Based Point Sentence

            Availability of tattoos has changed as more tattoo shops have been built and are easier to access. 

Claim-Based Point Sentence

            The American public’s view on tattoos has been altered as the quality of tattooing has increased; tattoos are no longer seen as “taboo”.  

Conclusion Point Sentence

            Tattoos have become popular in American culture because of the evolution of technology and increase in cultural influence in America.