As kinsfolk of the clans, the Russells have contributed to the colourful tapestry of Scotland's history, finding themselves at the centre of Scotland's bitter and bloody Wars of Independence with England and others playing a truly murderous role in the struggles between Crown and Covenant.
• In more peaceful times, others have achieved international acclaim and celebrity.
• Born in 1872, Bertrand Russell was the philosopher, mathematician and writer who, imprisoned for a time during the First World War because of his pacifist activities, was in later years a campaigner for nuclear disarmament.
