Friedrich Engels

Definition

Friedrich Engels was a German philosopher, social scientist, and political theorist who co-authored 'The Communist Manifesto' with Karl Marx in 1848. He played a vital role in the development of communist theory and became a key figure in the foundation of the socialist movement, advocating for the rights of the working class and critiquing capitalist society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Engels was born on November 28, 1820, in Prussia (now Germany) and came from a wealthy industrial family, which influenced his views on capitalism.
2. He provided financial support to Marx throughout his life, enabling him to focus on his writings and activism.
3. Engels wrote several important works, including 'The Condition of the Working Class in England,' which highlighted the struggles faced by laborers during the Industrial Revolution.
4. Engels played a significant role in establishing the International Workingmen's Association (First International) in 1864, aiming to unite various socialist movements across Europe.
5. After Marx's death, Engels continued to promote Marxist ideas and edited the second and third volumes of 'Das Kapital,' ensuring the continuation of their shared vision.

Review Questions

• How did Friedrich Engels' background influence his views on capitalism and the working class?
  • Friedrich Engels came from a wealthy industrial family, which gave him firsthand insight into the capitalist system. This experience allowed him to see the stark contrast between the lives of industrial capitalists and those of laborers. His observations of the harsh conditions faced by workers in factories deeply influenced his philosophy, leading him to advocate for social change and workers' rights alongside Karl Marx.
• Discuss the impact of 'The Communist Manifesto' co-authored by Engels on socialist movements around the world.
  • 'The Communist Manifesto,' written by Engels and Marx, provided a powerful critique of capitalism and called for the working class to rise against their oppressors. Its publication sparked revolutionary movements globally by articulating ideas that resonated with the struggles of workers. The manifesto laid down key principles of communism and has been influential in shaping socialist ideologies, inspiring countless activists and political movements throughout history.
• Evaluate Friedrich Engels' contributions to Marxism after Marx's death and their relevance in contemporary society.
  • After Marx's death, Engels took on a pivotal role in promoting Marxist theory, ensuring its continuity by editing important works like 'Das Kapital.' His writings further elaborated on concepts such as class struggle and material conditions, making them more accessible. In contemporary society, Engels' ideas remain relevant as discussions about economic inequality and workers' rights continue to resonate. His insights help frame modern debates on capitalism's effects on labor, social justice, and economic systems worldwide.

Related terms

Karl Marx:

A German philosopher and economist who, along with Engels, developed the theory of Marxism, which critiques capitalism and advocates for a classless society.

Communism:

A political and economic ideology that advocates for a classless system in which all property is publicly owned and each person works and is paid according to their abilities and needs.

Dialectical Materialism:

A philosophical approach to understanding societal change, developed by Marx and Engels, emphasizing the importance of material conditions and class struggle as the primary drivers of historical development.