Campbell Motto and Battle Cry

Clan Motto: “Ne Obliviscaris” – “Forget Not”

The official motto of Clan Campbell is “Ne Obliviscaris,” a Latin phrase meaning “Forget Not” or “Do Not Forget.” This motto appears prominently on the Campbell crest, encircling the image of a boar’s head, and is the personal motto of the Dukes of Argyll, the chiefs of Clan Campbell. It functions as both a moral imperative and a symbol of clan identity—urging members of the clan to remember their heritage, responsibilities, and the lessons of history.

Meaning and Origins

Like many clan mottoes adopted during the heraldic period in Scotland, “Ne Obliviscaris” was likely formalized in the late medieval or early modern period as the Campbell chiefs rose in political power and nobility. Though the exact date is uncertain, it is known that the Dukes of Argyll used the phrase on their coat of arms and official documents. The Latin origin gave the motto an air of dignity and universality, as Latin was the language of record, religion, and government.

The phrase “Forget Not” holds layered meaning. It encourages Campbells to maintain loyalty to the clan and to remember past deeds—both honorable and dishonorable. The current Duke of Argyll has remarked that it reflects the family’s desire to be mindful of past mistakes as well as successes. In this way, the motto is not only an expression of pride, but also of humility and accountability.

Historical Significance

The motto resonated deeply with a clan that was heavily involved in Scottish political and military history. From feuds with rival clans like the MacDonalds and MacDougalls to major engagements during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms and the Jacobite risings, the Campbells’ fortunes rose and fell with Scotland’s fate.

Importantly, the motto “Ne Obliviscaris” was also adopted by military units associated with Clan Campbell territory—most notably the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. This further cemented the phrase’s role as a badge of remembrance, not only for clan legacy, but also for military honor and sacrifice.

To this day, “Ne Obliviscaris” is used by Campbell descendants and organizations worldwide. It remains a powerful expression of the clan’s enduring identity and a commitment to honor their ancestors and traditions.

Clan Battle Cry: “Cruachan!”

The traditional war cry of Clan Campbell is “Cruachan!”—a single, powerful word referencing Ben Cruachan, a mountain in Argyllshire near Loch Awe. Towering at nearly 3,700 feet, Ben Cruachan dominates the landscape of the Campbell heartlands and serves as a symbolic guardian over their territory.

Meaning and Geographic Connection

“Cruachan” is Gaelic and is sometimes interpreted as “stack” or “peak.” It refers most directly to Ben Cruachan itself, but also to a nearby place of strategic importance—a settlement or farmstead on the western shore of Loch Awe that served as a rallying point for the Campbells. This spot lay opposite Innis Chonnell, a small island fortress that was an early Campbell stronghold.

Thus, when Campbell warriors shouted “Cruachan!” into battle, they were invoking not only the strength of the mountain but also the spiritual and territorial center of their clan. The cry served to identify Campbell warriors on the battlefield, intimidate enemies, and rally fellow clansmen in times of war.

Historical Usage

Throughout Scottish history, “Cruachan!” was used in battles, feuds, and ceremonial occasions. From clan skirmishes in the medieval Highlands to major battles like Glenlivet (1594), the cry of “Cruachan!” accompanied the Campbells into action. It was more than a slogan—it was a declaration of presence, unity, and resolve.

Like the motto, the battle cry was adopted by military regiments linked to the Campbell name. The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders used “Cruachan!” as a regimental shout, further extending the cry’s legacy into modern times. The Royal Regiment of Scotland also honors this tradition by naming its regimental Shetland pony mascot Cruachan.

Even today, the cry is used at clan gatherings, Highland games, and other cultural events. It continues to evoke the rugged, defiant spirit of the Highlands and the proud heritage of Clan Campbell.

Citations

Clan Campbell Society (North America). About Clan Campbell. Retrieved from https://www.ccsna.org
Inveraray Castle Official Website. Clan History & Motto. Retrieved from https://www.inveraray-castle.com
The Scotsman. Scottish Clan Slogans and Battle Cries. Retrieved from https://www.scotsman.com
Electric Scotland. Campbell History. Retrieved from https://www.electricscotland.com/webclans/atoc/campbell2.html
The Royal Regiment of Scotland. Mascot Tradition & History. Retrieved from https://www.army.mod.uk