The Branch Davidians

The Branch Davidians are a religious group that originated from the Davidian movement, founded in the 1950s by Victor Houteff, a former Seventh-day Adventist. They believe in interpreting the Bible literally and expect an apocalyptic event. Led by David Koresh in the 1980s and early 1990s, they established a compound in Waco, Texas. The group became widely known after a 51-day standoff with the U.S. government in 1993, which ended in a deadly fire, resulting in the deaths of many members, including children. Their beliefs combine evangelical Christianity with apocalyptic and prophetic teachings.