Summary

The surname MACDONALD is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Old Gaelic name MacDhòmhnaill, meaning 'son of Donald'. The Macdonald clan has a rich history and played a significant role in Scottish politics and warfare.
There are
46717
Macdonalds in the USA
Macdonald is the
744th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Macdonald

JohnA.

John A. Macdonald was the first Prime Minister of Canada and played a significant role in the country's development and expansion in the late 19th century.

WilliamMacdonald

William Macdonald was a Scottish-born American entrepreneur and philanthropist who founded the Macdonald Oil Company and made significant donations to education and healthcare.

RamsayMacDonald

Ramsay MacDonald was a British politician and the first Labour Party Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, serving in the early 20th century.

NormanMacdonald

Norman Macdonald was a Canadian television producer and director, known for his work on popular shows like 'Corner Gas' and 'Little Mosque on the Prairie.'

AngusMacdonald

Angus Macdonald was a Scottish politician and served as the 9th First Minister of Scotland, playing a crucial role in the devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament in the late 20th century.

HelenMacdonald

Helen Macdonald is a British author and naturalist, known for her award-winning memoir 'H is for Hawk,' which explores themes of grief, nature, and falconry.

JaclynMacdonald

Jaclyn Macdonald is an Australian actress and model, known for her appearances in various films and TV shows, including 'Neighbours' and 'Wentworth.'

JamesMacdonald

James Macdonald is a British theatre director, known for his work in both classical and contemporary productions, including his collaborations with the Royal Court Theatre.

FionaMacdonald

Fiona Macdonald is a British author and historian, specializing in children's non-fiction books on various subjects, including history, science, and culture.

KyleMacdonald

Kyle Macdonald is a Canadian blogger and entrepreneur who famously traded a red paperclip for a house through a series of online trades, gaining international attention.

Macdonald Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Macdonald' is of Scottish origin and is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name 'Mac Dhmhnaill,' meaning 'son of Donald.' It was historically associated with powerful clans in the Scottish Highlands.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Macdonald' is primarily associated with Scotland, particularly the Highlands. It is also found in other English-speaking countries like Canada, the United States, and Australia due to Scottish migration.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Macdonald' include 'Macdonnell,' 'Mcdonald,' 'McDonald,' and 'McDonell.' Different spellings are common due to anglicization and regional differences.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Macdonald' has been carried by Scottish immigrants to various parts of the world, particularly during the Highland Clearances in the 18th and 19th centuries. Scottish migration to countries like Canada, the United States, and Australia has contributed to the spread of the surname.