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MacLeods

The MacLeods are a Scottish clan traditionally associated with the Highlands and Islands, particularly the Isle of Skye and the surrounding Western Isles, including Harris and Lewis. The clan’s historic seat is Dunvegan Castle on Skye, long a symbol of its authority in the region.

Origins and divisions: The name MacLeod derives from Leod (Gaelic: Leod). The clan likely formed around his

History and culture: The MacLeods rose to prominence in the North Atlantic Gaelic world, maintaining power

Today: MacLeod is recognized as a distinct Scottish clan, with clan societies and gatherings that celebrate

descendants
in
the
medieval
period,
with
two
principal
branches
that
endure
in
historical
records:
MacLeods
of
Dunvegan
and
MacLeods
of
Harris.
A
third
branch,
historically
connected
to
Lewis,
is
sometimes
described
as
part
of
the
wider
MacLeod
grouping.
These
branches
held
separate
territories
and
influence
within
the
broader
MacLeod
realm.
in
the
Isle
of
Skye
and
neighboring
islands
for
many
generations.
They
were
involved
in
inter-clan
rivalries
typical
of
the
period,
notably
with
Clan
MacDonald,
and
built
and
fortified
coastal
strongholds
as
part
of
their
defense
and
governance.
Like
many
Highland
clans,
the
MacLeods
experienced
political
and
social
upheavals
in
the
late
medieval
and
early
modern
eras,
including
disruptions
following
the
Jacobite
risings
of
the
18th
century.
In
subsequent
centuries,
members
of
the
clan
emigrated
in
large
numbers
to
North
America,
Australia,
and
other
destinations,
contributing
to
the
global
Scottish
diaspora.
heritage
and
history.
The
chiefship,
historical
leadership
of
the
clan,
is
acknowledged
by
ceremonial
authorities
in
Scotland,
and
Dunvegan
Castle
remains
a
focal
point
of
MacLeod
identity
and
heritage.