A clan, from the Gaelic word clann meaning children, is a group of people that share a common parentage. Some clans are patrilineal meaning clan members are related through their fathers. Some are matrilineal or related through their mothers. Bilateral clans are related through any common ancestor, be it male or female. Like bands of tribes, all clans have leaders. They recognize a founding member. The founder is oftentimes the symbol of the group. Many cultures have kinship groups called clans. The Scottish, Irish, Chinese, and Japanese are but four examples.