Because "McDaniel" was often recorded based on how it sounded to a clerk rather than a standardized spelling, family researchers often find the same ancestor recorded as both "McDonald" and "McDaniel" in early American records.  While many descendants feel a strong connection to the history of Clan Donald, modern Y-DNA testing has shown that different lines of McDaniels have diverse origins. Some lineages share the ancient genetic markers of the Scottish Highland clans, while others—particularly those from the northwestern regions of Ireland—are linked to older, indigenous Irish clans and the historical royal dynasties of ancient Ireland.  Take the opportunity to also use the search bar in the top right corner.