The Duke of Montrose issues a warrant for the arrest of Rob Roy MacGregor.
Rob Roy MacGregor was a famous Scottish Highlander, outlaw, and folk hero whose life became a symbol of resistance and independence. Born Robert MacGregor in 1671 near Loch Katrine in Scotland, he belonged to Clan Gregor, a clan that had suffered years of persecution and legal restrictions. As a young man, MacGregor became involved in cattle trading and also participated in the Jacobite cause, which sought to restore the exiled Stuart monarchy to the British throne. His distinctive red hair is traditionally said to have earned him the Gaelic nickname **“Rob Ruadh,” or “Red Rob,”** which eventually became Rob Roy.

MacGregor initially made his living as a cattle dealer, buying and selling livestock while also offering protection to landowners against cattle theft. His fortunes changed dramatically after money intended for a major cattle purchase disappeared, reportedly taken by one of his associates. Unable to repay his debts, MacGregor came into conflict with James Graham, Duke of Montrose, one of his principal creditors. Montrose seized MacGregor’s property, and Rob Roy responded by raiding the duke’s lands and cattle. He became an outlaw and spent years using his knowledge of the rugged Highlands to evade capture. He also became involved in the Jacobite rising of 1715, although his role was complicated and he avoided committing himself completely to either side.

Rob Roy was eventually captured and imprisoned, but in 1727 he received a royal pardon from King George I. He died at his home at Inverlochlarig Beg in 1734, at about 63 years of age, and was buried at Balquhidder in the Scottish Highlands. His reputation grew enormously after his death, particularly through romanticized accounts of his adventures. Sir Walter Scott’s 1817 novel *Rob Roy* transformed him into an internationally famous figure and helped establish his image as Scotland’s equivalent of Robin Hood. Although the historical MacGregor was a cattle trader, raider, Jacobite sympathizer, and outlaw rather than simply a heroic champion of the poor, his dramatic life and resistance to powerful enemies ensured his lasting place in Scottish folklore.