Karl Marx theorized that human history revolved around which key issue?

Karl Marx's foundational concept in his critique of political economy is the idea that human history is fundamentally shaped by the conflict between different social classes, particularly the struggle between the working class (proletariat) and the ruling class (bourgeoisie). This conflict arises from the disparities in wealth and power that result from the capitalist system, where the bourgeoisie owns the means of production and the proletariat must sell their labor for survival.

Marx argued that this class conflict drives historical change and social evolution. He believed that as the working poor become increasingly aware of their exploitation, they would unite to challenge the existing social order, leading to revolutionary changes. Thus, this dynamic of class struggle is central to Marx's analysis of history, economics, and society, making conflict between the working poor and the wealthy the correct focus of his theoretical framework.

Other considerations like technological advancement, the role of government, and global trade are significant in their own right but do not encapsulate Marx's central thesis about the nature of human history as effectively as class conflict does.