The Hellfire Club was a secret society founded in the 18th century, primarily in England and Ireland. It was known for its members, who were often wealthy and influential, engaging in hedonistic activities and discussions about philosophy, politics, and religion. The club's name is derived from the term "hellfire," which reflects its reputation for debauchery and indulgence. One of the most famous members of the Hellfire Club was the politician and writer Francis Dashwood, who established the club in 1750. The club often met in a lavishly decorated mansion, where members would partake in extravagant feasts and rituals. Over time, the Hellfire Club became a symbol of the excesses of the elite during the Enlightenment period.