Principles of Communism is a foundational work by Friedrich Engels, written in 1847, serving as a draft for what would become The Communist Manifesto. Presented in a clear question-and-answer format, it systematically outlines the fundamental tenets of communism, including its historical necessity, the nature of the proletariat, the concept of private property, and the vision of a communist society. Engels elaborates on the historical development of capitalism, the exploitation inherent in the wage system, and the revolutionary role of the working class. This concise catechism provides an accessible introduction to the core ideas of scientific socialism, offering invaluable insights into the origins and objectives of the communist movement from one of its key architects.