The Fabian Society was formed in 1884 with the goal of establishing a democratic socialist state in Britain. The society’s name derived from Roman commander and statesman Fabius Maximus Cunctator, whose military tactics led to victory over stronger forces. Important early members of the Fabian Society included playwright George Bernard Shaw and sociologist Sidney Webb. In 1906, the group helped organize a separate party that became the Labour Party. Why is the Fabian Society’s symbol a tortoise? Discuss