MACGREGOR
Also recorded as Mac Gregor, Macgregor
MacGregor
MacGregor is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, meaning "son of Gregor". The Clan Gregor is one of the oldest and most famous Scottish clans, known for their fierce warrior culture and territorial disputes in the Scottish Highlands.
Origins
The MacGregor clan claims descent from Gregor, the third son of Alpin, King of Scots in the 8th century. The Clan Gregor was originally centred in Glen Orchy in Argyll, and over time, their influence spread throughout the Highlands.
History
The MacGregors were known for their conflicts with other clans, particularly the Campbells, with whom they had a long-standing feud. The clan's turbulent history includes being outlawed by the Scottish government in the early 17th century, a period known as the "MacGregor Persecution". During this time, it was illegal to bear the surname MacGregor, and many clan members had to take on different names to avoid persecution.
Legacy
Despite the challenges faced by the clan, the MacGregor name has endured and remains an emblem of Scottish pride and resilience. The tartan associated with the Clan Gregor is a distinctive black and red design that is still worn by those of MacGregor descent today.
In modern times, the MacGregor surname is found worldwide, with descendants of the clan living in various countries. The clan's motto, "S Rioghal Mo Dhream (Royal is my race), reflects the MacGregor's tenacious spirit and pride in their heritage.
References
- Way, George and Squire, Romily. Clans & Tartans of Scotland. HarperCollins, 2000.
- Roberts, Henry. The Clans, Septsand Regiments of the Scottish Highlands. John Mackay, 1587.
There are approximately 8,116 people named MacGregor in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,162nd most common surname in Britain. Around 125 in a million people in Britain are named MacGregor.
Surname type: From name of parent
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- Duncan
- Ian
- James
- John
- Robert
- William
Female
- Alison
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Janet
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.