PODCAST · education
Scottish Clans
by Clint Edwards
For those of you who want to discover the wild and colorful history of the Scottish clans without the Victorian era romanticism, this is the place for you. Riveting stories and scholarly information fuel this podcast, enabling listeners to learn the truth about their ancestors or discover the real story behind award-winning films such as Outlander, Outlaw King, and Braveheart. Presented by Clint Edwards- a husband, father, teacher, retired soldier, and disciple of Christ.
Episodes
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The Scottish Clans at Flodden: A Generation Lost
The Battle of Flodden in 1513 was one of the greatest military disasters in Scottish history—but its impact on the Scottish clans went far beyond the battlefield. In this episode, we examine the remarkable number of Scottish clan chiefs who fell at Flodden, working through the clans whose...
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The Eigg Massacre: A MacLeod Atrocity?
In this episode, we step into one of the darkest chapters of clan history: the Massacre of Eigg. Reading directly from Stuart McHardy's The Well of the Heads, we tell the story of the Smooring of the MacDonalds — the moment invading MacLeods cornered the MacDonalds of ClanRanald hiding in a sea...
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After 1493, There Was No Clan Donald — There Were Several: The Branches That Survived and Those That Vanished — Part 2
The fall of the Lordship of the Isles didn't just fracture a clan — it set off a centuries-long story of survival, rivalry, and extinction. In Part 2, we continue our deep dive into the independent branches that emerged from the ruins of Clan Donald, focusing on four clans that carved out their…
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After 1493, There Was No Clan Donald — There Were Several: The Legacy of the Lordship of the Isles — Part 1
When the Lordship of the Isles fell in 1493, it didn't just end a political dynasty — it shattered one of the most powerful Scottish clans in history. In this episode, we explore how the mighty Clan Donald ceased to exist as a single unified clan and instead splintered into multiple independent...
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The Biggest Clans in Scottish History Pt 2
Which Scottish clans truly dominated the landscape of Scotland? In Part 2 of this two-part series, we continue our look at the 15 biggest Scottish clans, measured by territory, influence, and the number of cadet branches they produced. These were the kindreds that expanded, adapted, and…
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The Biggest Clans in Scottish History P t 1
Which Scottish clans were truly the largest and most powerful? In this episode of the Scottish Clans podcast, we look at the 15 biggest Scottish clans, judging their influence by the amount of land they controlled and the number of cadet branches they produced. These were the kindreds that...
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The Keppoch Murders: Darkness within Clan Donald
In this episode, I read and discuss the story behind the Keppoch Murders from Stuart McHardy’s The Well of the Heads, one of the most haunting episodes in the history of Clan Donald. This account explores the killing of the Keppoch chief and his brother by members of their own kindred, revealing...
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The Complex World of Gaelic Scotland
In this episode, I step away from a simple Highland–Lowland divide and draw on research from Wilson McLeod’s PhD thesis, Divided Gaels: Gaelic Scotland and Gaelic Ireland, 1200–1650 to show just how fragmented and uneven Gaelic Scotland really was. Using McLeod’s work, I explore how some Highland...
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The Galloway Clans: MacDowall
Clan MacDowall (often rendered MacDougall or MacDowell in later forms) represents one of the most significant Gaelic kindreds of medieval Galloway, rooted in the same west-Gaelic world that shaped the clans of Argyll and the Hebrides. Emerging from the Gall-Ghaidheil milieu—a fusion of Gaelic and...
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The Galloway Clans: McCulloch
This episode tells the story of Clan McCulloch, a proud Galloway family with deep Celtic ties but a surprising genetic signature. We examine their documented beginnings in 1296, loyalty to the Balliols, violent rivalries (especially the long feud with the Gordons that ended in a public…
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The Galloway Clans: MacLellan
In this episode of Scottish Clans, we delve into Clan MacLellan, a powerhouse of medieval Galloway whose story is one of meteoric rise, bloody feuds, and tragic decline through unyielding loyalty. Emerging in the late 13th century as devotees of St. Fillan (their name from Gaelic…
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Galloway’s Clans in the Wars of Independence — The Balliol Connection
In this second installment of our series on the Gaelic clans of Galloway, we dig deeper into a pattern that kept surfacing in every clan’s story: their consistent support for the Balliol side during the Scottish Wars of Independence. Building on Episode One’s overview of Galloway’s early history,...
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A Small Clan with a Great History!
Join us on Scottish Clans as we journey to the wild cliffs of Trotternish on the Isle of Skye and uncover the remarkable tale of the Martins – a proud sept of Clan Donald whose story begins with the legendary seafarer Aonghas na Gaoithe, winds through centuries of loyal service to the MacDonalds…
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The Gaelic Clans of Galloway Pt 1
When people talk about the Gaelic clans of Scotland, they usually picture the Highlands and the Isles. But what about Galloway? In this episode, I dive into the rich, overlooked story of the Gaelic clans of Galloway — a region whose people shared the same ethnic and cultural roots as the clans of...
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191 Betrayal in Lochaber: Clan Cameron’s Internal Clash
In this episode, we uncover a dramatic chapter in the history of Clan Cameron—a time when internal rivalries turned deadly. During the late sixteenth century, rising tensions between Allan Cameron of Lochiel and the powerful cadet branches of Glen Nevis and Erracht boiled over into open conflict....
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190 Blood and Power in the Lennox: The Colquhouns, MacGregors, and MacFarlanes
This episode traces the violent struggles that engulfed the Lennox in the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, where the Colquhouns of Luss found themselves beset by MacFarlane raids, MacGregor incursions, and the shifting politics of Scotland’s great magnates. From the burning of...
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189 Clan Donald Heritage Hangs in the Balance
The Armadale Estate on the Isle of Skye - the modern beating heart of Clan Donald - may soon be sold. In this powerful interview, four members of the MacDonald clan speak out about what's truly at stake. This isn't just about land. It's about culture, identity, and preserving a sacred legacy for...
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188 How Gaels Really Pronounce Scottish Clan Words (Pt2)
In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Aonghas MacCoinnich—native Gaelic speaker and lecturer at the University of Glasgow—we continue exploring how to pronounce the Gaelic words and names connected to Scotland’s clans. From clan surnames to titles, place names, and common terms like mac and…
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187 How Gaels Really Pronounce Scottish Clan Words (Pt 1)
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Aonghas MacCoinnich, lecturer at the University of Glasgow and native Gaelic speaker from the Isle of Lewis. Together, we explore the original Gaelic pronunciation of Scottish surnames, place names, and clan-related terms that many people—even those of Scottish...
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186 The Truth about Clan Slogans/War Cries
Where do Scottish clan slogans come from—and are they the same as heraldic mottos? In this episode, we explore the Gaelic origins of the word "slogan," meaning "army shout," and how these cries functioned in Highland warfare. While many Highland clans had distinctive battle slogans, not all did,...
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185 Border Reivers, Ulster, and the End of the Lowland Clan World
When King James VI of Scotland became James I of England, he brought sweeping changes to the Anglo-Scottish Borders and Ulster that few today connect to the collapse of kin-based society in the Scottish Lowlands. In this episode, we explore how the brutal suppression of the Border Reivers…
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184 Clan Menzies: A Peaceful Power in Turbulent Times
In this episode, we explore the lesser-told story of Clan Menzies, a Highland clan known more for its diplomacy and loyalty than for bloodshed. While not the most warlike of clans, the Menzies still played a role in major conflicts of the 17th and 18th centuries—including the Jacobite...
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182 Colonel Anne Mackintosh: The Jacobite Heroine & the Rout of Moy
During the 1745 Jacobite Rising, Colonel Anne Mackintosh defied expectations by rallying the Mackintosh clan for Bonnie Prince Charlie—despite her husband fighting for the British government. Her leadership and cunning played a pivotal role in the Jacobite cause, culminating in the legendary Rout...
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181 How the Campbells and MacGregors went from Allies to Enemies
In this episode, we delve into the fierce conflict between Clan Campbell and Clan MacGregor, a struggle for survival that would shape Highland history. Led by the cunning Cailean Liath Campbell, the Campbells sought to expand their dominance, but standing in their way was the fearless and…
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180 Clan Chiefs and Lords: How Feudalism Relied on Kinship Pt 2
Thanks to Christopher Menzies in our Scottish Clans Podcast Facebook group, who came up with a great question about how clan society interacted with the political structure of Scotland. I demonstrate here how the political system didn't just coexist with the clans, it relied on them. I include...
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179 Clan Chiefs and Lords: How Feudalism Relied on Kinship Pt 1
Thanks to Christopher Menzie in our Scottish Clans Podcast Facebook group, who came up with a great question about how clan society interacted with the political structure of Scotland. I demonstrate here how the political system didn't just coexist with the clans, it relied on them. I include...
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178 The Last Clan Battle? Pt 2
Was the last clan battle that which happened at Altimarlach in 1680 or the battle of Mulroy in 1688? In this two-part episode I consider the events that lead up to the battle of Mulroy and the different perspectives one could take in deciding if it was the last clan battle. The Highland clans of...
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177 The Last Clan Battle? Pt 1
Was the last clan battle that which happened at Altimarlach in 1680 or the battle of Mulroy in 1688? In this two-part episode I consider the events that lead up to the battle of Mulroy and the different perspectives one could take in deciding if it was the last clan battle. The Highland clans of...
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176 These Clans Still Have Chiefs!
This is a small sampling of clans that still have chiefs. Some of them come from a line of chiefs which is unbroken since the founder of the clan. Others lines were resurrected after a period of time where the clan was chiefless. Make sure Bruce from Scotland History Tours is a part of your next...
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175 A Different Macintyre Origin and MacDonnell of Keppoch's Candlesticks
The book The Well of the Heads: Historical Tales of the Scottish Clans is a new addition to my library (amazon link below). It's a wealth of semi-historical lore of the clans. Here I pull two stories, one for the Macintyres and one for the MacDonnells of Keppoch. Both are great stories that I…
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174 10 Castles Still Owned by the Original Clan
Fortunes rise and fall but these clans managed to hold on to these castles throughout the generations. Some of them are even still lived in by the chief! Make sure Bruce Fumey is part of your next trip to Scotland: [email protected] Wear your pride in your Scottish heritage! -...
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173 Scottish Clans Foundations: The Normans
The Normans' impact on Scotland was disproportionately large compared to their genetic contribution. They were the "cool kids" and native magnates from all over Scotland were eager to adapt their ideas and ways. In addition, they founded several major clans. Join me to examine their military and...
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172 Scottish Clan Foundations: The Vikings
The Vikings had a profound impact on the development of Scotland (read/listen to some of Dauvit Broun's work) as well as founded several Scottish clans! Join me for a look at the role they played, as well as learning about several clans that they founded.
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171 Scottish Clan Foundations: The Angles of Northumbria
This group is often overlooked when discussing those groups that contributed to the foundations of the Scottish clans. Then why discuss them? Join me and see. Also available on Apple Podcasts. Check the links below. Contribute to the Cause! Check out my Reading List w/ Amazon links! The YouTube...
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170 Scottish Clan Foundations: The Britons of Strathclyde
This kingdom of Britons was a major power in what would become Scotland from the fall of the Roman Empire to it's annexation by the Scottish kings. Let's look at why this group is important as we seek to understand the ethnic origins of the Scottish clans. My reading list and other resources!...
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169 Scottish Clans Foundations: Joining the Gaels and Picts!
In this episode, I start by sharing the traditional narrative of the Gaelic takeover of the Picts. Next, I add important historical context around this process. Finally, I present a brilliant theory by Dr. Alan Bruford as found in the book Alba: Celtic Scotland in the Medieval Era. Amazon link to...
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168 Scottish Clan Foundations- The Picts
We continue with the miniseries detailing the various groups that contributed to the Clans of Scotland! In this episode, we discuss myths and traditional narratives of the Picts and challenge them with more recent scholarship. Scottish Clans on YouTube Scottish Clans Website Resources for…
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167 Scottish Clan Foundations - Scots of Dal Riata
We're taking it back to the foundations folks! The Scots of the kingdom of Dal Riata made important contributions to the concept of the Scottish clans. Find out what they were in this new take on one of my earliest episodes for this podcast. This is the first in a series of podcasts revisiting…
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166 The Fight for the Lordship of Lorne: Stewarts, Campbells, and MacDougalls
This one is the stuff best-selling novels, movies or series are made of! We take a story I've told before here and, using a paper written by Prof. Steve Boardman, peel back the layers to reveal and even more compelling story than I originally ever imagines. Loyalty, betrayal, feud, alliance,...
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165 Destroying Myths and Revealing the True Scottish Clans with Dr. Murray Pittock
You won't agree with everything Dr. Pittock says but hopefully you've considered the possibility that some of your conceptions about Scottish clans are off. What are some of the misconceptions that are widely held that Dr. Pittock corrects? What ideas of your own did he challenge? This episode is...
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164 The Appin Murder: Post Culloden Intrigue
During the Jacobite Rising of 1745, clans that were already at feud chose different sides and continued the conflict. But with the failure of the rising and its disastrous conclusion at the Battle of Culloden, sometimes the fighting didn't stop. Check out this story of conflict between the…
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163 Campbells and MacGregors with Professor Martin MacGregor Pt 2
I hope you enjoyed the part of my discussion with Dr. Martin MacGregor. Here is the rest of our conversation. Now that we've established the origins of both clans, we get into their turbulent relationship with each other, which ended far away from where it began. This is also available on Apple...
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162 Campbells and MacGregors with Professor Martin MacGregor!
What a great experience it was to learn these two well-known clans, the Campbells and MacGregors, and their turbulent relationship from one of the most knowledgeable people on the subject! I hope you enjoy this conversation I had with him. This is only the first half of our discussion. Stay tuned...
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161 The MacLeods of Lewis and Mackenzies with Dr. Aonghas MacCoinnich Pt 2
I'm excited to share part 1 of the discussion that I had with Dr. Aonghas MacCoinnich!!! He focuses on the Clans Mackenzie and MacLeod of Lewis. You could not get a more knowledgeable person for these two clans. This was truly a feast. If you have any interest in either of these two clans, this…
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160 The MacLeods of Lewis and Mackenzies with Dr. Aonghas MacCoinnich
I'm excited to share this discussion that I had with Dr. Aonghas MacCoinnich!!! He focuses on the Clans Mackenzie and MacLeod of Lewis. You could not get a more knowledgeable person for these two clans. This was truly a feast. If you have any interest in either of these two clans, this and the…
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159 Pre-Clan Clans pt 2
As promised during last episode, I share a couple more examples of earlier kindreds that begat clans that we are more familiar with today. I also discuss why I feel this is an important thing to consider when understanding where clans come from and what they really are. Also available on Apple...
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158 Pre-Clan Clans
Many of the clans we recognize today formed between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries. What is less well-known is that many of these clans evolved from previous clans. Some of these previous kindreds are well-documented. Others remain obscure both regarding their history and their antiquity....
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157 Scottish Clans and the Highland Charge! Pt 1
The Highland charge was a devastating military tactic that scattered enemy forces on numerous occasions. The big question is, "Which specific clans actually executed the Highland charge?" Many people see Alasdair mac Colla MacDonnell as the author of this tactic and it was specifically the clans...
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156 The Highland Charge!
One of the most dynamic and exciting aspects of seventeenth century Highland history was the Highland Charge. We'll go over what a Highland charge was and why it was so effective. In subsequent episodes we'll go over which battles it was used in and therefore which clans have engaged in this...
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155 The Battle of Inverlochy!
Just to get to the battlefield, the Marquis of Montrose and his Royalist forces pulled off "one of the greatest exploits in the history of British arms." I take this episode from John L. Roberts' Clan, King, and Covenant: History of the Highland Clans from the Civil War to the Glencoe Massacre....
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
For those of you who want to discover the wild and colorful history of the Scottish clans without the Victorian era romanticism, this is the place for you. Riveting stories and scholarly information fuel this podcast, enabling listeners to learn the truth about their ancestors or discover the real story behind award-winning films such as Outlander, Outlaw King, and Braveheart. Presented by Clint Edwards- a husband, father, teacher, retired soldier, and disciple of Christ.
HOSTED BY
Clint Edwards
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Scottish Clans have?
Scottish Clans currently has 204 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Scottish Clans about?
For those of you who want to discover the wild and colorful history of the Scottish clans without the Victorian era romanticism, this is the place for you. Riveting stories and scholarly information fuel this podcast, enabling listeners to learn the truth about their ancestors or discover the real...
How often does Scottish Clans release new episodes?
Scottish Clans publishes regularly with 204 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Scottish Clans?
You can listen to Scottish Clans on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Scottish Clans?
Scottish Clans is created and hosted by Clint Edwards.
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