What Is a Pachuco Cross?

The pachuco cross is a simple tattoo consisting of a cross with three lines radiating upward. It is one of the most common tattoos among Hispanic gang members and is typically found on the web between the thumb and index finger.

The etymology of the word “pachuco” is unclear. However, it refers to a particular style of Hispanic gang life involving zoot suits and flamboyant public appearances. The pachuco subculture declined in the 1960s and ’70s and was gradually replaced by the Chicano movement. Gang members exchanged fancy suits for t-shirts and khakis. Modern-day Hispanic gang members are usually called cholos or vatos.

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