Heirs to both a Lowlands and a Highlands heritage, with bonds to the three proud clans of MacGregor, Lamont and Maclean, the roots of the Blacks of today are buried deep in the ancient soil of Scotland. It was through their kinship with these clans that many paid dearly in the cause of the nation’s independence, while many also suffered in defence of their religious beliefs. In more peaceful times, they have gained distinction through a colourful variety of endeavours and pursuits. Researchers into the origins and history of surnames owe a debt to the efforts of Scots-born George Fraser Black, who published his monumental The Surnames of Scotland in 1946, after 40 years of research, while in the sciences Joseph Black, born in 1728 in France to Scottish parents, is recognised as the chemist who first isolated carbon dioxide. The proud tale of the Blacks is recorded here.
