Why Do Last Names with Mc Like McDonald Have Two Uppercase Letters?

Last names that start with Mc, such as McDonald, are a fascinating blend of linguistic and cultural history. These names are particularly intriguing because they often have two uppercase letters, which sets them apart from other surnames.

Proper Nouns and Capitalization

Proper nouns, such as names of people, places, or things, are always capitalized in the English language. This rule applies to last names as well. For instance, if Tree is a person's first or last name, it is capitalized, just as Joe Tree or Hickory Tree Corners Inn are.
However, in common usage, when tree refers to a noun referring to a plant, it remains lowercase as it is a common noun. Capitalization is reserved for the specific naming of individuals or entities.

The Etymology of Mc and Mac

Names like McDonald are deeply rooted in the history of the Scottish and Irish clans. The prefixes Mc and Mac signify 'son of,' indicating the lineage of an individual's patrilineal ancestor. This practice began in Gaelic culture, specifically Scotland and Ireland, where heritage and lineage were of utmost importance.

For example, MacDonald means 'son of Donald,' while MacGregor means 'son of Gregor.' Similarly, Irish names such as O’Hara and O’Malley denote 'of the family Hara' and 'of the family Malley,' respectively.

Historical Naming Practices and Capitalization

The use of Mc and Mac as prefixes dates back to early Gaelic languages, where Mc was an abbreviation of Mac, meaning 'son of.' These prefixes were used to form surnames, typically by appending a male first name to the prefix. In the case of McAndrew or MacAndrew, the primary name (Andrew) is capitalized due to being a proper noun. This practice follows the rule of capitalizing names of people, places, or significant entities in a language.

The variability in the use of uppercase letters in Mc or Mac prefixes highlights the evolving nature of these naming conventions. For instance, Ramsey MacDonald and John Alexander Macdonald both display the Mac prefix, with one using an uppercase M and the other using lowercase. This difference is a reflection of the choices made by individuals or official records, as there is no strict rule mandating the number of uppercase letters to be used.

Early Inconsistencies and Record Keeping

The inconsistency in early record-keeping practices has contributed to the current variety in how Mc and Mac names are written. Historical documents and records, which were sometimes handwritten or recorded differently by various scribes, led to variations in capitalization and usage. Over time, these names have become more standardized, but the initial inconsistencies have left a mark on modern naming conventions.

Conclusion

In summation, the two uppercase letters in names like McDonald are not arbitrary but are rooted in the cultural and linguistic heritage of these names. They reflect both the specific historical context from which these names originated and the evolving standards in modern language and record-keeping practices. Understanding these nuances helps in appreciating the rich tapestry of surname history and the importance of proper capitalization in the English language.