Known as the father of Marxism, Karl Marx dedicated his whole life to promoting the Marxist theories, communism predates him. While most of his thoughts are quite public, like his prediction that capitalism will be brought down by a workers’ revolution and protest, there are some facts that you may not know about him.
Here are 5 Interesting facts about the ‘Father of Marxism’ about Karl Marx.
His Baptism
Baptism is an essential rite of passage in many cultures, it was possibly politically motivated. His father converted to Lutheranism in 1816 as a response to a new law barring Jews from serving in professions or public office.
A life riddled with diseases
According to biographer Werner Blumenberg, Marx suffered from headaches, eye inflammation, joint pain, insomnia, liver and gallbladder problems, and depression. This is ironic considering the man has a strong voice of opinion.
Possible alcoholic
His illness might come from the fact that he might be a heavy drinker. While promoting the idea that leisure is a commodity in the capitalistic world, Marx would often pair his thinking sessions with a glass of beer.
Controversial marriage
The man who believes in anti-upper class and aristocracy definitely defies social expectations even in marriage. Th professor ironically fell for an aristocrat a couple of years older than him. His wife, Jenny von Westphalen was a political activist as well. It is controversial not because of their social status. During the era, marrying a girl four years elder than the guy was quite unusual and frowned upon.
Romantic to the Marx!
Apparently, Marx does not always write about political ideologies. He is also a romantic. He wrote many love poems while he was courting Jenny as well a writing a satirical novel by the name of Scorpion and Felix.
Source: News18