Have you seen unique tattoos with four black bars? This type of tattoo is called the Black Flag, and has recently become a big part of pop culture with the origins starting during the 1980s with the rise of the punk music scene.

A black flag tattoo still remains a popular ink design throughout the United States and quite possibly the world.

It is more than just being a tribute to a popular punk band that was famous during a time where punk music was an underground scene. You either were a part of it entirely and wholeheartedly or you weren’t.

The Black Flag band stood for opposition, anarchy, and rebellion. These ideas are one reason why many people have inked their skin with what may seem to be a simple and no-fuss tattoo design, but which is, in reality, a bold statement against authority and anything that tries to impose control.

The impact that the black flag tattoo had back in the 80’s was due to the fact that punk music wasn’t what popular kids listened to-it was music for outsiders which is one reason why black flag tattoos were so bold and iconic.

A black flag design can be an important piece for you, whether you are fan of punk or not. It can be a statement piece for you if you are an activist, someone who fights for what you believe in, or just an all-around anarchist. “If a white flag means surrender, a black flag represents anarchy.” – Raymond Pettibon.