The Aragua Train tattoo is an important tattoo style that originated in Venezuela. This style was created to honor the Aragua train, a symbol of the liberators of the 19th century.
The tattoo has a unique combination of symbols, recalling the historical legacy of the Aragua train and the protection of workers of the time. The tattoo has a special meaning for the people of Latin America, since represents the spirit of freedom and rebellion.
History of the Aragua Train Tattoo
The Aragua Train was built in the early 1840s. and connected the two main cities of Venezuela: Caracas and Valencia.
It was essential for the development of the country and its use increased over the years. Later, the train began to transport troops during the War of Independence, when it became an important part of the Venezuelan liberation movement.
Over time, the train also became associated with the rebellion against the Spanish Empire. Its use became a symbol of the fight for freedom and The workers of the time adopted the train as a representation of their strength and perseverance.
In 1900, the railway workers finally emerged victorious in their fight for better conditions, and took control of the railway and its services.
Aragua Train and its expansion over the years
Since the 2000s, railway construction projects began to be carried out in the state of Aragua. which had a large number of workers and from there unions and labor groups were created.
These workers' unions began to collect bribes and extort money from companies and individuals, Thus, the Aragua Train became a Venezuelan criminal organization that has expanded to several Latin American countries.
Over the years, the gang grew stronger and diversified its activities, beginning to commit several very serious crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, kidnapping and contract killing.
The economic and social crisis in Venezuela facilitated its expansion, and many of its members emigrated to other countries, taking their criminal activities with them. Currently this criminal gang has a presence in several Latin American countries.
Band operation
This gang began to operate in the Tocorón prison , where it established its base, later grew outside the prisons and spread to different regions of Venezuela.
Their leaders were in that prison, but they managed to control the gang from inside the prison. One of them was identified, but he escaped and is presumed to be in Colombia, where he operates.
Since 2018, it has expanded its activity to other countries in the region such as Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile and Brazil, benefiting from migratory movements.
This expansion of the gang is related to the migration crisis in Venezuela, as many of its inhabitants decided to leave the place and seek other origins. In addition to South American countries, they have mobilized to northern Mexico and the United States.
It is important to note that the Aragua train has become one of the most powerful criminal organizations in the region, raising concerns about its growing influence and ability to operate transnationally.
Aragua Train Tattoo and its meaning
The Aragua Train tattoos function as markers of belonging, rank and loyalty within the organization. They can indicate position, crimes committed, or alliances.
Specific designs may vary, but are often They include elements that represent power, violence and control.
Like any criminal organization, the Tren de Aragua adapts its symbols and practices as it evolves. This means that tattoos can change over time, and new designs can emerge to reflect new alliances, rivalries, or activities.
The international expansion of the Aragua Train has caused its symbols to be seen in many Latin American countries, and new local symbols to be created.
Many tattoo meanings can be hidden or coded, known only to members of the organization. This makes it difficult for outsiders to accurately interpret the symbols.
It is important to remember that many members may be required to get tattoos as part of their initiation or as a show of loyalty to the group. This means that tattoos do not always represent a personal choice.
Law enforcement and investigators are working to understand the meaning of the Tren de Aragua tattoos, but the secretive nature of the organization presents significant challenges.
Information about these tattoos can be used by law enforcement to identify gang members. Sometimes they reveal tattoos and distinctive tattoos that are most common among gang members. so that the population can be alert and learn to identify them.
Tattoo design of the Aragua Train organization
Some of these designs allow the identification of members of this organization, according to the Washington Post, since the United States is on alert for the presence of this Venezuelan gang.
Michael Jordan Logo
Corona
Estrella
Rifle tattoo
HJ Tattoo
Some of the symbols would have Michael Jordan's Nike logo, crowns and skulls, AK 47 rifles, letters like HJ meaning son of God, phrases like until death, wearing masks, stars, train tattoos and dice, roses and predatory felines including jaguars and tigers, stars on the shoulder indicating rank. These are some of the tattoos worn by the gang.
Finally, the Aragua Train tattoo is a powerful tattoo style with a great significance based on the historical legacy of train workers in Venezuela.
It is a reminder of the workers' rebellion and the fight against oppression, as well as a symbol of the wearer's personal commitment to freedom. It is important to know how it has changed over the years, but to keep the essence of what it was in its beginnings and the value of freedom and rebellion that it had in its beginnings.
Let us make it clear that the beginnings and creation of the train have nothing to do with the current criminal organization that bears the same name.
People who wear this tattoo are honoring the railroad workers of that time and remembering the importance of the train in the fight for freedom. The Aragua Train tattoo is an important part of Latin America's cultural heritage and a significant symbol of strength and freedom.