Karl Marx, was a philosopher of 19th-century, economist, and political theorist, is known for his influential theory of class and class struggle. Marx's theory is a central component of his broader analysis of society and history, which he expounded in works such as "The Communist Manifesto" and "Das Kapital." Here is a simplified overview of Marx's theory of class and class struggle:

Karl Marx's Theory of Class and Class Struggle:

1. Historical Materialism:
 Marx's analysis begins with historical materialism, the idea that the economic structure of society (the mode of production) shapes its social and political institutions. He identified different historical epochs characterized by distinct modes of production (e.g., feudalism, capitalism).

2. Capitalist Mode of Production:

        In the capitalist mode of production, Marx identified two primary classes:

Bourgeoisie (Capitalists): The owners of the means of production (factories, land, machinery). They extract surplus value from the labor of the working class.

Proletariat (Workers): Those who sell their labor power to the bourgeoisie. They do not own the means of production and are dependent on selling their labor for a wage.

3. Exploitation and Surplus Value:
Marx argued that capitalists exploit workers by paying them a wage that is less than the value of the goods and services they produce. The surplus value, the difference between the value produced by labor and the wage paid, is a source of profit for the capitalists.

4. Class Struggle:
Marx believed that inherent conflicts of interest between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat would lead to class struggle. This struggle arises from the exploitation of labor and the inherent contradictions within capitalism.

5. Revolution and Communism:
Marx envisioned a revolutionary transformation in which the proletariat, recognizing their common interests, would overthrow the bourgeoisie. This would result in the establishment of a classless society—communism—where the means of production are collectively owned, and social classes cease to exist.

6. Dictatorship of the Proletariat:
In the transitional period, Marx proposed the "dictatorship of the proletariat," where the working class holds political power to suppress the remnants of the capitalist class and establish the conditions for communism.

It's essential to note that interpretations of Marx's theory have varied, and his ideas have been applied in diverse ways over time. Additionally, historical events and the development of Marxist thought have led to different schools of Marxism.