Macdonald vs. Macleod

Highland Clans and Their Bitter Legacy

In the wild, wind-lashed reaches of the Scottish Highlands and islands, few rivalries were as enduring—or as brutal—as that between the clans Macdonald and Macleod. Both ancient, both proud, both deeply entrenched in the history of Skye and its surrounding isles, their mutual antagonism shaped the politics, legends, and bloodshed of the region for centuries.

The Macdonalds, known as the Lords of the Isles, wielded immense influence over the Hebrides and parts of the mainland. The Macleods, with strongholds like Dunvegan Castle, carved out their own domain in Skye and beyond. Though they shared marriages and occasionally aligned in interest, the overarching tale of these clans is written more in betrayal and war than alliance and peace.

One of the darkest chapters in their shared story is the horrific burning at Trompon Kirk.