Karl Marx (1818-1883) was a German philosopher, economist, sociologist, and revolutionary socialist. Born in Prussia, he studied law, history, and philosophy. Marx is best known for his critique of capitalism and his theories of socialism and communism, which collectively form the basis of Marxism. His notable works include The Communist Manifesto (1848), co-written with Friedrich Engels, and Das Kapital (1867-1894), a critical analysis of political economy. Marx argued that societies develop through class conflict and that capitalism would inevitably be overthrown by a proletarian revolution.
Marx's theories have had a profound impact on social and political thought, influencing socialist movements and the formation of communist states in the 20th century. He is considered one of the principal architects of modern sociology. In contemporary discourse, Marxism remains a significant framework for analyzing social inequality and power relations. Recently, a life-size statue of Karl Marx was unveiled at the Connemara Library in Chennai, India, reaffirming the relevance of his ideas. This event highlights the continuing interest in and debate surrounding Marx's work and legacy.