The term "Jacobin" refers to a member of the Jacobin Club, a political group during the French Revolution that advocated for radical democratic reforms. The Jacobins were known for their strong support of the revolution and their desire to establish a republic based on principles of equality and liberty. They played a significant role in the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the First French Republic. The Jacobins were led by influential figures such as Maximilien Robespierre and were associated with the Reign of Terror, a period marked by political purges and executions. Their ideology emphasized the importance of popular sovereignty and the need for a centralized government to achieve revolutionary goals. Over time, the Jacobins became synonymous with extreme revolutionary fervor.