Revolution and Counter-Revolution; or, Germany in 1848

What it is

This is a series of articles by Karl Marx written around 1851-52 about the revolution in Germany in 1848. The articles were later collected into a book, edited by Eleanor Marx Aveling.

Why it matters

Marx wrote this while the events were still fresh, trying to explain quickly why the revolution happened and what it meant for the middle class, working people, and the question of German unification. Friedrich Engels later praised Marx's ability to understand historical events almost as they happened.

Look closer

• Why might it matter that Marx wrote this so soon after the events he describes?
• What does the editor's note suggest about how this work connects to Marx's other writings?
• What groups of people does Marx focus on when explaining the revolution?