Friedrich Engels

Definition

Friedrich Engels was a German philosopher, social scientist, and political theorist who is best known for his collaboration with Karl Marx in developing the theory of Marxism. Engels co-authored key works such as 'The Communist Manifesto' and played a crucial role in advocating for the ideas of socialism and communism during the 19th century, significantly impacting the development of classical Marxism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Engels was born on November 28, 1820, in Barmen, Prussia, and came from a wealthy industrial family, which influenced his views on class struggle.
2. He financially supported Marx for many years, allowing him to focus on his writing and research without the burden of economic hardship.
3. Engels contributed significantly to several key works in addition to 'The Communist Manifesto', including 'Das Kapital' where he also edited and published the second and third volumes after Marx's death.
4. His book 'The Condition of the Working Class in England' published in 1845 highlighted the dire conditions faced by workers during the Industrial Revolution, arguing for the necessity of social change.
5. Engels also played a vital role in establishing the First International, which aimed to unite various socialist groups across Europe and promote workers' rights.

Review Questions

• How did Friedrich Engels' background influence his ideas about class struggle and socialism?
  • Friedrich Engels came from a wealthy industrial family, which allowed him to witness firsthand the harsh realities of the working class during the Industrial Revolution. His experiences led him to advocate for social change and to develop a strong belief in class struggle as a driving force in society. This background gave him unique insights into the plight of workers, shaping his partnership with Karl Marx in formulating theories that addressed these issues through socialism and communism.
• Discuss the significance of 'The Communist Manifesto' in relation to Engels' contributions to classical Marxism.
  • 'The Communist Manifesto', co-authored by Engels and Marx, serves as a foundational text for classical Marxism. It articulates the goals of communism, calling for proletarian revolution against capitalist systems. Engels’ input was crucial in formulating the manifesto's arguments, showcasing his ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. The work had a lasting impact on socialist movements worldwide and remains relevant in discussions about class struggles today.
• Evaluate Engels' role in shaping socialist thought post-Marx's death and how his ideas continue to influence modern social movements.
  • After Marx's death, Engels became a key figure in preserving and expanding upon Marxist theories. He edited and published several of Marx's works, ensuring their accessibility to future generations. Engels' writings emphasized the importance of material conditions in shaping society and inspired later socialists and labor movements. His contributions laid groundwork for various modern interpretations of socialism, making his thoughts essential for understanding ongoing social justice movements that address class inequalities today.

Related terms

Karl Marx:

A German philosopher and economist, Karl Marx is best known for developing the theories of socialism and communism in partnership with Friedrich Engels, particularly through their collaborative works.

Dialectical Materialism: A philosophical approach that views material conditions as the primary influence on societal development, emphasizing the conflict between opposing forces as a driver of change.

The Communist Manifesto: A political pamphlet co-authored by Engels and Marx in 1848 that outlines the principles of communism and calls for the proletariat to rise against bourgeois oppression.