USS Idaho Sailor With Tattoos Shirtless Wrestling Mat 1920 Real Photo Postcard
The image features a U.S. Navy sailor, recognizable by his "dixie cup" hat and standard-issue undershirt. Tattoos, prominent on his arms, were a deeply ingrained aspect of naval culture throughout the early to mid-20th century, serving as personal identifiers, markers of experience, and symbols of allegiance or superstition acquired during voyages.
This type of personal portraiture became especially common during periods of significant military mobilization, such as World War I and World War II, offering a tangible connection between servicemen and their families back home. These photographs provide insight into the individual lives and cultural practices within the armed forces during an era of global conflict and expanding naval power.
This type of personal portraiture became especially common during periods of significant military mobilization, such as World War I and World War II, offering a tangible connection between servicemen and their families back home. These photographs provide insight into the individual lives and cultural practices within the armed forces during an era of global conflict and expanding naval power.
