ARRAN, EARLS OF. The extinct Scottish title of the earls of Arran (not to be confused with the modern Irish earls of Arran —from the Arran or Aran Islands, Galway—a title created in 1762) was borne by some famous characters in Scottish history. With the exception of the first earl, Thomas Boyd (see ARRAN), and James Stewart, all the holders of this title were members of the Hamilton family.