The Warrior History of Clan MacDonald of Clanranald

Clan MacDonald of Clanranald (often simply Clan Ranald) is one of the largest and most historically significant branches of the mighty Clan Donald. The clan descends from Reginald, the son of John, Lord of the Isles, and Amie MacRuari. While his younger brother founded the Glengarry line, Reginald inherited vast territories including Moidart, Arisaig, and the isles of Eigg, Rum, and Uist. For centuries, the chiefs ruled from the impregnable fortress of Castle Tioram.

The Field of Shirts The clan is famous for its martial spirit, often engaging in violent feuds. One of the most legendary conflicts was the Battle of the Field of Shirts (Blar na Leine) in 1544. Fighting against the Frasers for the chiefship, the weather was so oppressively hot that the clansmen cast aside their heavy tartans and chainmail, fighting only in their long linen shirts. It was a bloody victory for Clanranald, securing the leadership of the legendary chief John Moidartach.

Jacobite Loyalty The Clanranald MacDonalds were staunch supporters of the Royal House of Stuart. They rose in the rebellions of 1715 and 1745. Led by Young Ranald, the clan regiment fought with distinction at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Following the tragic defeat, Young Ranald was forced to flee to France, while the clan lands were subjected to government reprisals.

Betrayal and Clearance While the clan survived war, they were nearly destroyed by their own chief in the 19th century. Reginald George, the 20th Chief, lived a lavish life in Regency London, far removed from his people. To fund his extravagance, he squeezed his tenants for exorbitant rents and eventually sold almost all the ancestral lands between 1813 and 1838. This led to the misery of the Highland Clearances, with many clansmen forced to emigrate to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

The Clan Today The direct line of chiefs became extinct in 1944. However, the spirit of the clan survived. The chiefship was successfully claimed by the MacDonalds of Boisdale, a cadet branch. Today, Ranald Alexander Macdonald serves as the 24th Chief and Captain of Clanranald, ensuring that the legacy of Mac Mhic Ailein (Son of Allan's Son) continues in the modern era.

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