A Scottish Highland clan surname meaning 'son of Gregor.' Also refers to members of Clan MacGregor, known for their turbulent history and motto 'My race is royal.'
From Scottish Gaelic 'Mac Griogair', meaning 'son of Gregor'. Gregor itself derives from Greek 'Gregorios' meaning 'watchful'. The clan faced persecution and their name was proscribed by law from 1603 to 1774, forcing members to adopt other surnames.
Clan MacGregor holds the unique distinction of being the only Scottish clan whose very name was once illegal to use. For over 170 years, bearing the MacGregor name was punishable by death, leading to the famous clan motto 'Despite Them' - a defiant response to their persecution.
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