After Marx, Before Lenin: Marxism and Socialist Working-Class Parties in Europe, 1884-1914

by Gary P. Steenson

In this book, Gary P. Steenson offers new interpretations of the history and nature of socialist movements in Germany, France, Austria, and Italy, from after Karl Marx's death until World War I.  Based largely on Friedrich Engels's correspondence and those of other socialist party leaders, Steenson analyzes Engels's view of European politics and those of his strategic counsel. He also derives the standards of Marxian orthodoxy from party publications and the political press. The central importance of Engels is clear, as is the seductive appeal of his frequently insightful, often misguided counsel to working politicians. Steenson also finds that this period saw no contradiction in adherence to Marxism and full participation in democratic, representative politics-and that in those countries where democratic forms did not exist, Marxists led the struggle to obtain them.

Genres: History, Politics, Nonfiction

366 pages, Paperback

First published June 15, 1991

About the author

Gary P. Steenson is a historian, specializing in Marxism and Europe.

Reviews

[Samuel Atkinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

A comprehensive analysis of the spread of Marxist parties through late nineteenth and early twentieth century Europe from the perspective of four nations Germany, France, Austria, and Italy. Valuable as an academic source.