Communist Manifesto

Definition

The Communist Manifesto is a political pamphlet written by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, published in 1848, that outlines the principles of communism and critiques capitalism. It serves as a rallying cry for the working class to rise against the bourgeoisie, advocating for class struggle as a means to achieve a classless society. The manifesto played a crucial role in shaping socialist movements worldwide, particularly in response to the social and economic changes brought about by industrialization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Communist Manifesto argues that history is driven by class struggles, specifically between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat.
2. The pamphlet calls for the proletariat to unite and overthrow the capitalist system, stating, 'Workers of the world, unite!'
3. The manifesto outlines ten measures to be implemented in a communist society, including progressive taxation and free education for children.
4. It emphasizes that the ruling ideas of any age are those of the ruling class, highlighting how capitalist ideologies dominate society.
5. The publication of the Communist Manifesto sparked various socialist movements across Europe and influenced revolutionary activities in the following decades.

Review Questions

• How does the Communist Manifesto describe the relationship between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat?
  • The Communist Manifesto describes the relationship between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat as fundamentally antagonistic, rooted in class struggle. The bourgeoisie, who own the means of production, exploit the labor of the proletariat, leading to social inequality and injustice. Marx and Engels argue that this exploitation creates a revolutionary potential within the proletariat, which must ultimately rise against the bourgeoisie to achieve liberation and establish a classless society.
• Discuss the historical context in which the Communist Manifesto was written and how it responded to industrialization.
  • The Communist Manifesto was written during a time of rapid industrialization in Europe, which led to significant social and economic changes. The growth of factories created a distinct working class facing harsh working conditions, low wages, and long hours. This environment prompted Marx and Engels to critique capitalism as inherently exploitative. They believed that industrialization intensified class divisions, making it essential for workers to unite against their oppressors, hence shaping socialist ideologies that aimed to address these injustices.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the Communist Manifesto on global political movements throughout history.
  • The Communist Manifesto has had a profound and lasting impact on global political movements since its publication. Its ideas inspired numerous socialist and communist parties around the world, leading to significant revolutions such as the Russian Revolution in 1917. The manifesto's advocacy for class struggle and collective ownership resonated during times of economic turmoil, shaping labor rights movements and anti-colonial struggles. Additionally, its influence can be seen in contemporary discussions about inequality and workers' rights, demonstrating its relevance even today as societies grapple with similar issues.

Related terms

Bourgeoisie:

The capitalist class who owns the means of production and is considered the ruling class in capitalist societies.

Proletariat:

The working class who sell their labor for wages and are seen as oppressed under capitalism.

Socialism:

A political and economic theory advocating for collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods.