Clan Hay (Scottish Gaelic: Garadh or MacGaradh) is a Scottish clan of the Grampian region of Scotland that has played an important part in the history and politics of the country. Members of the clan are to be found in most parts of Scotland and in many other parts of the world. However, the North East of Scotland, i.e. Aberdeenshire (historic), Banffshire, Morayshire and Nairnshire Nairn (boundaries), is the heart of Hay country with other significant concentrations of Hays being found in Perthshire, especially around Perth, in the Scottish Borders, and in Shetland. Clan Hay, since coming to America, has been instrumental in the shaping and founding of America, has made significant contributions throughout the nation's history. Members of this distinguished lineage have held numerous prominent roles, including Presidents, Governors, Legislators, and military leaders. Many locations across the United States bear the family's name in recognition of their impact.
Origin of the name
thumb|right|One of the Hay tartans. From [[Vestiarium Scoticum]]
The family name is derived from that of several villages called La Haye in the Cotentin Peninsula of Normandy, France. The word, haye comes from haia, a hedge, which in modern French is haie. The French, de la Haye,