Clans or tribes were the way most groups of people were governed in the distant past. However, as the population grew and governing more complex, the clan structure in most areas of the world was replaced by a centralized government. Scotland was the last bastion of clan government in this newer more “civilized” world. Scotland eventually yielded to the central government approach.
However, in Scotland, the clan structure remains a vital force. Indeed, to this day, Scottish Clans gather the world over to show their allegiance to their clan.
Originally, the clans took a common name and banded together for economic and safety reasons. The name of the group was the surname of the Chieftain, say Donald. This name was preceded by “Mac” meaning “son”. Thus, the MacDonald clan means the sons of Donald. Of course, many of those owing allegiance to Clan Donald do not carry the Donald surname. Nonetheless, these families (referred to as septs) consider themselves to be Sons of Donald. To this day, many Scottish people feel they have a stronger allegiance to their clan than they do to any other entity.
The clan crest badge in the accompanying graphic identifies the wearer as a member of the MacDonald clan. Every clan has a badge of this nature as well as a unique tartan (woven cloth with a specific, unique weave/color pattern) which marks the wearer as a member of a given clan.
