Gaels

The Gaels are an ethnic group in Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man, whose language is one that is Gaelic (Goidelic), an Insular Celtic language. The word in English was adopted in 1810 from Scottish Gaelic Gaidheal (compare Irish Gaoidheal) to designate a Highlander (OED). Gael or Gaoidheal was first used as a collective term to describe people from Ireland; it is thought to have come from a Welsh word, Gwyddel meaning raiders.

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The Gaels during the beginning of the Christian era (at which time Gaelic people were mostly restricted to Ireland) believed themselves to be descendants of M?l Esp?ine. This belief persists in the Gaelic cultures of Ireland and Scotland up to the present day, with many if not most clan leaders in either country claiming descent from their predeccesor, back to famous historical kings going back into pre-history.

Ireland: :This page is about the island of Ireland. For the political territories on the island, see Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the History section below....

Scotland: :For other uses, see Scotland (disambiguation). See also British Isles (terminology)....

Isle of Man: :For the native Isle of Man Cat, see Manx Cat....