"The Communist Manifesto" was co-authored by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels and published in 1848. The book outlines the principles of communism and critiques capitalism, calling for the working class (proletariat) to rise against the bourgeoisie (capitalist class). It emphasizes class struggles throughout history and advocates for the abolition of private property, revolutionizing the socio-economic system to establish a classless society. The manifesto has significantly influenced political ideologies and movements worldwide, serving as a foundational text for socialist and communist theories. Its impact is still felt today in various leftist political movements and discussions about capitalism and class.