Family History and Genealogy Resources by Surname
McDonald Surname Origin
(Origin Scottish) This family was for many centuries reputed the most powerful of any in the Highlands of Scotland, being styled 'King of the Isles,' for many generations, during which they were successful in asserting their independence. Somerled, Thane of Argyle, flourished about the year 1140, and was the ancestor of all the McDonalds. He married the daughter of Olans, Lord of the Western Isles, whereupon he assumed the title of 'King of the Isles.' He was slain, in 1164, by Walter, Lord High Steward of Scotland. Donald, from whom the clan derived their name, was his grandson.
Source: An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names With an Essay on their Derivation and Import; Arthur, William, M.A.; New York, NY: Sheldon, Blake, Bleeker & CO., 1857.
McDonald Surname Meaning and Family Facts
McDonald Last Name Meaning
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A McDonald Family History Thought:
'Not to know what happened before we were born is to remain perpetually a child. For what is the worth of a human life unless it is woven into the life of our ancestors by the records of history' -- Cicero