"The Communist Manifesto," published in 1848, was co-authored by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. This influential political pamphlet critiques capitalism and presents the theory of historical materialism, arguing that class struggle is the driving force of societal change. It advocates for the proletariat (working class) to rise against the bourgeoisie (capitalist class) to establish a classless society. The manifesto is known for its famous opening line, "A spectre is haunting Europe—the spectre of communism." It has had a lasting impact on political movements and ideologies around the world.