For many people the clan system is a vague concept, associated perhaps with colourful tartans and tragic battles, and in particular with the defeat of Prince Charles Edward and his gallant Highland army at Culloden in 1746. Bit it was the clan system that provided the economic and social structure of the Highlands for some 500 years. The bond of this kinship was so strong that for those of Highland descent even today, their clan is a worldwide family that engenders a pride in their past and a unique sense of belonging.