The given name Mcarthur has its origins in the Gaelic language and culture. It is a Scottish name that dates back to the Middle Ages. The name is derived from the Gaelic words "mac" meaning son, and "Arthur" which is a variant of the name Arthur, a legendary British king from the 5th or 6th century.

Mcarthur was a common name among Scottish clans and families during the medieval period. It was often given to sons born to fathers named Arthur or with names that were variations of Arthur. The earliest recorded examples of the name Mcarthur can be found in ancient Scottish chronicles and records from the 12th and 13th centuries.

One of the earliest known references to the name Mcarthur is in the Annals of Ulster, an ancient Irish chronicle that mentions a Scottish king named Macarthur in the year 1187. However, it is unclear if this was a given name or a surname.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the given name Mcarthur. One of the most famous was Mcarthur Martin, a Scottish philosopher and historian who lived from 1609 to 1672. He wrote extensively on the history and culture of Scotland and was a respected scholar of his time.

Another notable Mcarthur was Mcarthur Campbell, a Scottish explorer and adventurer who lived from 1723 to 1796. He is best known for his travels and expeditions throughout the Scottish Highlands and his detailed accounts of the landscapes and people he encountered.

In the 19th century, Mcarthur Macgregor was a prominent Scottish politician and advocate for Scottish independence. He lived from 1812 to 1887 and served in the British Parliament, where he fought for greater autonomy and recognition for Scotland.

Mcarthur Stewart was a Scottish poet and playwright who lived from 1847 to 1923. He was a prominent figure in the Scottish literary renaissance of the late 19th century and wrote works that celebrated Scottish culture and traditions.

Another notable Mcarthur was Mcarthur Douglas, a Scottish architect who lived from 1865 to 1937. He was responsible for designing several iconic buildings in Scotland, including the Glasgow School of Art and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.