What is the origin of chauvinist?

Defined as, "exaggerated, blind patriotism (base Word chauvinism)," the Word chauvinist is now often used to describe someone who is particularly sexist. The Word was coined after the 18th-century French soldier named Nicolas Chauvin. It is not clear if Chauvin was a real person or merely a character, but the story goes he stayed fiercely loyal to the French Empire and Army despite their overthrow and a number of crippling injuries to his self.