Ancient... enigmatic.... colorful.... complex....

all of these words describe the Clans of Scotland which are part of this country's
compelling historical journey the magical, mystical, fascinating, charismatic and enchantingly extraordinary elements of this
unique and tiny country.The intriguing Scottish clan system plays a big role in Scottish culture and tradition and has it's roots in
the ancient Celtic tribal system

The original clans of Scotland were basically extended family groups, the majority of members were related by blood and
descended from a common ancestor.

They also contained a number of 'Septs', which were families who didn't have direct blood ties to the Clan Chief (or Chieftain) but
were still associated with it. Often these Septs wielded a certain amount of clan power Each individual Scottish clan was tightly
bound together, by blood and by loyalties, and they tended to develop their own very specific customs, traditions and laws. By
the 1800's they were under attack in the form of increasing pressure from the English monarchy and British Government.

In 1746 a Scottish rebellion was defeated at the Battle of Culloden, and the Scottish clan system was almost destroyed.
However, the Scots are nothing if not determined and hardy, and they clung to their traditions and beliefs and in the 19th Century
they saw the popularity of their clans begin to see a revival. Since then a growing interest in Scottish history & culture has
people across the world wanting to learn more about their Celtic ancestry and roots.

Overall, the clans have played a huge role in shaping the culture, traditions, attitudes and sentiments of the Scottish
people.Loyalty and devotion ran deep, and feuds with rival clans were often passed down through the generations - the ill-will
refusing to diminish over time.Many bloody battles were fought over clan territories, and there was generally no love lost between
the Highland clans of Scotland and the Lowland clans or septs.

Each clan had their own fiercely-guarded territory or land, and was ruled by the powerful Chieftain who controlled just about
every aspect of daily life.
But historically, these are much more than family groups, in fact for centuries this was the main political system in Scotland.
Membership passes down through the male side of the family (patriarchal).

Today, a clan is a legally recognized group in Scotland, and it has a 'corporate identity' by law (the same way a business or
company has).It's a 'noble incorporation' because Clan Chiefs are considered noblemen of Scotland Under Scottish law, a clan
is recognized as the chief’s heritable property - he legally owns it and is responsible for its administration and development.