Radicalism

29 Pages 7288 Words

kers overthrew the middle class, society as a whole would be emancipated. The dictatorship of the workers would rid the world of middle class society and this would be followed by the emergence of a truly classless society.

During 1848-1867 Marx labored to produce his definitive analysis of capitalism – “Capital.” The first volume was published in 1867. He elaborated his earlier theories and described in detail the process of production, exchange, and distribution of capitalism. The value of any manufactured item was determined by the amount of labor necessary to produce it. Yet workers were paid less than this value. The difference was taken by the capitalist class. This was the basis for Marx’s claim that the working class was compelled to suffer under capitalism. Workers became commodities because they were forced to sell their labor. As long as Capitalists refused to pay workers a wage close to the labor value of their work they were exploited. “Capital” became the theoretical rallying point for a growing band of Socialists and it breathed life into the First International – which was formed to overthrow capitalism and abolish private property. Marx assumed leadership of the International. By 1876 it had faded from existence. The increased prosperity of the workers and the Paris Commune of 1871 led to its demise.

The defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War led to the collapse of the government of Napoleon III. France agreed to peace, but in Paris the Commune took control. As part of the peace agreement, France had to put down the Rebellion of Paris. The French army moved into Paris and the Commune executed hostages. As the forces of the Commune were driven back, they set fire and destroyed the areas they retreated from. The Commune was smashed, but thousands had died. Europe was horrified. Marx, in the name of the International, praised the Commune. He said they had fought the first battle in the class war he...