Davidian

The term Davidian can refer to several groups or individuals, most notably the Branch Davidians, a religious sect whose compound near Waco, Texas, was the site of a deadly siege by federal agents in 1993. This group, a schism from the Davidian Seventh-day Adventist denomination, gained notoriety due to its charismatic leader, David Koresh, and the subsequent standoff. The original Davidian Seventh-day Adventist movement was founded by Benjamin Roden in the 1930s, with later leaders including Lois Roden and David Koresh, whose birth name was Vernon Wayne Howell.

The Branch Davidians believed Koresh to be a messianic figure and that they were living in the end times. Their beliefs included interpretations of biblical prophecy and a focus on communal living. The 1993 siege began with an ATF raid aimed at seizing illegal weapons and arresting Koresh. The raid escalated into a 51-day standoff, ending with a fire that engulfed the compound, resulting in the deaths of Koresh and numerous followers, including children.

The Waco siege remains a controversial event, sparking debates about religious freedom, government overreach, and the tactics used by law enforcement. The term "Davidian" can also sometimes be used more broadly to refer to any follower of David Koresh or his teachings.