Definition of left wing

The term "left wing" originally emerged during the French Revolution in the late 18th century. At the time, the seating arrangements in the French National Assembly were based on members' political ideologies, with the more conservative and aristocratic individuals sitting on the right and the radicals and progressives seated on the left. This seating arrangement was due to the tradition of defendants in medieval courts sitting to the left of the judge, who was seen as an authority figure. This practice was later reversed during the Renaissance to show respect and admiration for the ruler, so that they sat to the right. In the French National Assembly, this arrangement was followed, but it eventually came to signify something else entirely. As the radicals became more vocal and assertive, they gained the nickname "the Left" or "the Left Wing" as a result of their position on the left side of the assembly. This label stuck and is still used today to refer to political groups or individuals who promote progressive and egalitarian ideals, often with a focus on social and economic justice. The phrase "left of center" has also been adopted as a synonym for left-wing, representing those who lean to the left of the political center. Overall, the origins of the term "left wing" reflect the evolution of political thought and the historical background of the time, with the leftside of the assembly coming to symbolize those who opposed traditional authority and favored more democratic and radical policies.