What did Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels argue in "The Communist Manifesto"?

Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, in "The Communist Manifesto," articulated a clear critique of capitalism and outlined their vision for a revolutionary transformation of society. They argued that capitalism inherently led to class struggle, primarily between the bourgeoisie (the owners of production) and the proletariat (the working class).

The manifesto calls for the overthrow of capitalist systems, positing that the proletariat would rise against the bourgeoisie to establish a classless society where the means of production were communally owned. This emphasis on collective ownership and the abolition of class distinctions is central to their theory of communism. They believed such a system was necessary for achieving true equality and freedom, making it clear that they were advocating for a fundamental change in societal and economic structures rather than maintaining the status quo or promoting individualistic ideals.

In contrast to the other options, which suggest support for capitalism, government maintenance, or an emphasis on individualism, Marx and Engels were firmly positioned against these concepts, advocating instead for radical change towards a communist society where the working class would have power and control over their labor and production.