Friedrich Engels (1820-1895) was a German philosopher, social scientist, and political theorist who collaborated closely with Karl Marx in developing the theory of Marxism. Born in Barmen, Germany, Engels shared Marx's concerns about the injustices of industrial capitalism and the exploitation of the working class. His early experiences working in his family's textile business provided him with firsthand knowledge of the harsh conditions faced by factory workers, fueling his commitment to social change.

Engels' most famous work, "The Condition of the Working Class in England," published in 1845, provided a detailed account of the living and working conditions of industrial workers in England. Throughout his life, Engels remained a steadfast advocate for socialist principles, dedicating himself to promoting workers' rights and advocating for social and economic justice. His collaboration with Marx resulted in some of the most influential works in the history of political thought, shaping the course of socialist and communist movements around the world.