Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century

What it is

This is a written work by Karl Marx on diplomatic history, focused on Russian and British foreign relations, including events connected to the Crimean War period. It was later edited for publication by Eleanor Marx Aveling and Edward Aveling.

Why it matters

The piece shows Marx working outside of economic theory, analysing international politics and the diplomatic manoeuvring of major European powers. It reflects his deep interest in using historical research to criticise the ruling powers of his time.

Look closer

• What does Marx seem most critical of in the diplomacy he describes?
• Why might Marx's daughter and son-in-law have chosen to publish this work after his death?
• How might a reader's opinion of Marx affect how they read his historical claims here?