Clann Somhairle

House of Somerled
FounderSomerled
Titles
Cadet branchesClan MacDougall
Clan Donald
Clann Ruaidhrí

Clann Somhairle, sometimes anglicised as Clan Sorley, /ˌklæn ˈsɔːrli/ refers to those Scottish and Irish dynasties descending from the famous Norse-Gaelic leader Somerled, King of Mann and the Isles, son of Gillabrigte (†1164), and ancestor of Clann Domhnaill. Primarily they are the Clan Donald, and Clan MacDougall and all their numerous branches. Clan Macruari are their lost sept. They are formerly known as the Lord of the Isles. Clan Donald played a significant role in the decline of Norse-Gaelic influence. [1]

  1. ^ Smith, Philip. "On the Fringe and in the Middle: The MacDonalds of Antrim and the Isles, 1266–1586." History Ireland, https://www.historyireland.com/on-the-fringe-and-in-the-middle-the-macdonaldsof-antrim-and-the-isles-1266-1586-by-philip-smith/. Accessed 30 September 2024.