COMMIECAT
German Philosopher & Economist (Germany, 1818–1883)
Importance
Co-author of The Communist Manifesto and Das Kapital; developed the theories of class struggle, historical materialism, and surplus value that formed the basis of Marxism and inspired numerous 20th-century revolutions and regimes.
Lesser Known Facts
- Financial Dependence Despite his fierce critique of capitalist exploitation, Marx relied heavily on financial support from his wealthy friend Friedrich Engels throughout most of his adult life.
- Chaotic Domestic Life Marx maintained a notoriously disordered and unhygienic household, rarely bathing and working irregular hours amid constant clutter.
- Rowdy Youth As a student, Marx drank heavily, participated in tavern brawls with Prussian aristocrats, and once accepted a duel.
- Failed Poet Marx started his literary career writing romantic poetry, which he later abandoned in favor of philosophy and economics.
- Unfinished Magnum Opus He spent decades on Das Kapital but left the project incomplete at his death; later volumes were edited and published by Engels.