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Gangs have long used symbols and body markings as ways of identifying themselves. Tattoos can be as simple as a five or six pointed star and as complex as a full body panel. Many gang members literally have "stories" of their lives in tattoos. A gang member can be identified by particular set through a marking/tattoo and they share the common identifier within their group.
Symbols have been adopted and used by gangs for centuries. It is common to see gang related graffiti containing certain symbols that identify beliefs or an allegiance. For example, the Folk and People nations out of Chicago, Ill. have adopted 6-pointed stars and 5-pointed stars to represent their beliefs and principles. Pitchforks, canes, dog paws, crowns, slashed letters, arrows pointing up or down, these are all examples of symbols used in the gang culture