author
Alexander Mackenzie
1838–1898
A self-taught Scottish historian and editor, he became known for lively books on Highland history, clan traditions, and notable figures from the north of Scotland. His work helped preserve local stories and identities at a time when regional history was gaining a wider audience.
3 Audiobooks
The History of the Highland Clearances Second Edition, Altered and Revised
by Alexander Mackenzie
The Prophecies of the Brahan Seer (Coinneach Odhar Fiosaiche)
by Alexander Mackenzie, Coinneach Odhar
History of the Mackenzies, with genealogies of the principal families of the name
by Alexander Mackenzie
About the author
Born in Gairloch, Ross-shire, on December 25, 1838, Alexander Mackenzie had only limited formal schooling and worked in a range of jobs before making his name in publishing and historical writing. He later settled in Inverness, where he became closely associated with the city's literary and political life.
Mackenzie edited the Celtic Magazine and wrote extensively about Highland and clan history. Among his best-known books are The History of the Highland Clearances, The Prophecies of the Brahan Seer, and large clan and local histories, including work on the Mackenzies and the Macdonalds. His writing mixed documentary research with a strong interest in preserving Highland memory, tradition, and identity.
He also took part in public life and served as a member of Inverness-shire County Council. Mackenzie died on January 22, 1898. Though some of his work reflects the historical methods and assumptions of his era, his books remain an important window into how Highland history was gathered, argued over, and remembered in the late nineteenth century.