Casting aside cherished tartan myths, Scottish Highlanders dwells on the realities of highland history, rather than the romanticized view which novelists from Sir Walter Scott onwards have invested the Highland clans. The book is arranged in two main sections: the first is an outline of Scottish history relevant to the Highlanders; the second is a series of individual clan histories, frequently cross-referenced to section one. The author tackles many difficult historical questions including the real reason for the great Campbell-MacDonald rivalry, the grim episodes of the Highland Clearances, and the intricate task of deciding exactly which clans did exist prior to 1746 - the actual number being smaller than generally believed. This impassioned study presents a fascinating picture of an oppressed people; of a race who have left a lasting impression on the world which is far in excess of their apparent numerical, geographical, or political importance.