The Foundations of Leninism by Joseph Stalin is a concise exposition of the principles of Leninism, written to systematize Lenin's ideas and apply them to the context of the global revolutionary movement. Stalin outlines Leninism as the theory and tactics of proletarian revolution in the era of imperialism and proletarian dictatorship. The book emphasizes key concepts such as:

The Foundations of Leninism serves as a practical guide for Marxist-Leninist parties, offering a theoretical framework for understanding and advancing revolutionary movements in the context of global capitalism and imperialism.

Updated January 6th, 2026 with better manuscript for easier listening!

**Please note that Engels is a product of his time and that he uses language and terms that are based on his biases. This text is extremely influential for understanding how the economic mode of production shapes the family and that is what should be gleaned from this text**

The Origin of the Family, Private Property and the State by Friedrich Engels is a foundational Marxist work that examines the historical development of human society, focusing on the evolution of social structures like the family, private property, and the state. Engels builds on the anthropological studies of Lewis H. Morgan and situates his analysis within a materialist framework, arguing that societal changes are driven by shifts in modes of production and the division of labor.

Engels traces the transformation from primitive communal societies, where resources and responsibilities were shared, to class-based societies marked by the emergence of private property. He argues that the institution of the monogamous family developed as a means to ensure the inheritance of private property within patriarchal lines, reinforcing male dominance and the subjugation of women.

The state, Engels contends, arose as a tool to protect the interests of the ruling class by maintaining class divisions and controlling class conflict. He concludes by emphasizing that the abolition of private property and the state under socialism will lead to the dissolution of oppressive family structures, gender inequality, and class antagonisms, paving the way for a truly egalitarian society.