O'Donnell Family Crest
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Colors on the O'Donnell family crest explained
Argent (silver) - signifies the sincere and peaceful nature of O'Donnell family members.
Gules (red) - symbolizes martyrdom and historic military strength when called upon.
Azure (blue) - represents the O'Donnell family's loyal and truthful nature.
Or (Gold) symbolizes the historical generosity of this ancient family.
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  Symbols on the O'Donnell family crest explained
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The arm holding the cross - symbolizes Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. This is a symbolic connection to the O'Donnell family's early religious associations in Ireland.Â
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Origins of the O'Donnell family name
The earliest known origin of the name O'Donnell is from the Irish surnames Ó Domhnaill or Ó Dochartaigh, which are derived from the Gaelic personal name Domhnall.
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The name Domhnall is thought to be derived from the Old Irish word for "world" or "universe" (dumno).
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For a more detailed history, see our crest & history products
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Summary of the O'Donnell family and the O'Donnell family crest
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The O'Donnell clan is one of the most ancient families in Ireland, with a history dating back over 1,000 years.
- The clan was based in the northwestern part of Ireland, in present-day County Donegal.
- The name was borne by a number of early Irish kings and chieftains, including the semi-legendary 5th-century king of Tara, and by the 12th-century king of Connacht.
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It is also the name of several saints, including Saint Domhnall of Munster and Saint Domhnall of Armagh. The name O'Donnell is also found in Scotland, where it is thought to be a variant of the Scottish name MacDonald.
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The O'Donnells were traditional allies of the O'Neill clan.
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In the early 1600s, the O'Donnells supported the rebellion of Hugh O'Neill, the Earl of Tyrone, against the English crown.
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The rebellion was crushed, and the O'Donnells were forced into exile in Spain and Italy.
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In the late 1600s, the clan's chieftain, Red Hugh O'Donnell, led a failed attempt to drive the English out of Ireland.
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After Red Hugh's death in 1602, the clan's power declined, and it was eventually dispersed.
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Many O'Donnells emigrated to other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
- While O'Donnells likely arrived in America in the 18th century, The first recorded bearer of the name in America was John O'Donnell, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1803.
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The O'Donnell clan is still recognized today, and its members are spread across the globe.
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