As a domain expert in the field of political science and history, I have a deep understanding of the evolution of political ideologies and their impact on society. One of the most significant ideologies that has shaped the modern world is communism, and it is often associated with the names of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. Let's delve into the origins of communism and the contributions of these two thinkers.

Karl Marx was a German philosopher, economist, sociologist, historian, political theorist, and revolutionary whose work in developing the theory of historical materialism and critiquing capitalism has had a profound influence on the world. Marx's collaboration with Engels led to the publication of the "Communist Manifesto" in 1848, which is considered one of the most influential political documents in history. This manifesto laid out the principles of communism and called for the workers of the world to unite against the bourgeoisie.

Friedrich Engels, a German philosopher, social scientist, author, political theorist, and revolutionary, was a close collaborator of Marx. Engels provided not only intellectual support but also financial assistance to Marx, enabling him to dedicate his life to research and writing. Engels' own work, such as "The Condition of the Working Class in England," provided empirical evidence of the dehumanizing effects of industrial capitalism.

The concept of communism, however, did not spring forth fully formed from the minds of Marx and Engels. It was a product of its time, influenced by the economic and social conditions of the 19th century, as well as the intellectual currents of the Enlightenment and Romanticism. The idea of a classless society where the means of production are owned communally has roots in various utopian and socialist thought that predates Marx and Engels.

Marx and Engels' contribution was to synthesize these ideas with a scientific analysis of society's development, leading to the creation of a comprehensive and systematic theory of communism. They believed that history was driven by class struggles and that capitalism, with its inherent contradictions, would eventually give way to socialism and then communism.

It is important to note that the term "communism" was not originally used by Marx and Engels to describe their vision. They preferred the term "scientific socialism," emphasizing the scientific basis of their theories. The term "communism" became more widely used after the "Communist Manifesto" and especially in the 20th century when various political parties and states adopted the label.

The influence of Marx and Engels extends beyond the realm of political theory. Their work has been a catalyst for social movements and revolutions around the world. The Russian Revolution of 1917, led by Vladimir Lenin, is a prime example of the practical application of Marxist theory, leading to the establishment of the world's first self-proclaimed socialist state.

However, the implementation of communism in various countries has taken different forms, and the historical record is mixed. While it has been a force for social change, it has also been associated with authoritarianism, repression, and economic inefficiencies in some instances.

In conclusion, while Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels are most closely associated with the development of communist theory, it is essential to understand that their work was a response to the social and economic conditions of their time and built upon a foundation of earlier socialist and utopian thought. Their theories have had a profound impact on the world, shaping political movements, economic systems, and intellectual discourse for over a century.

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Meanwhile, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels joined the German Social-Democratic Party, which had been created in 1875, but which was outlawed in 1879 by the German government, then led by Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, who deemed it to be a political threat due to its revolutionary nature and increasing number of ...read more >>