In Loving Memory of
Karl Marx
(1818-1883)
Karl Heinrich Marx was a philosopher, economist, journalist, and revolutionary thinker whose ideas shaped the course of modern history.
Born on 5 May 1818 in Trier, Prussia (now Germany), Marx is best known for co-authoring The Communist Manifesto with Friedrich Engels and for his monumental work Das Kapital, where he examined the nature of capitalism, labour, and class struggle.
Marx’s life was defined by hardship, exile, and a relentless commitment to the working class. Living much of his adult life in poverty in London, he poured his energy into research and writing, frequently supported by Engels. His work sparked political movements, influenced social theory, and left an indelible mark on philosophy and economics.
Marx died on 14 March 1883, aged 64, and was buried in Highgate Cemetery, London. On his gravestone are the words:
"Workers of all lands unite" — a rallying cry that echoes to this day..
"He cared more about justice than comfort. He gave everything to the cause of the oppressed."
— Friedrich Engels
Lovely Little Facts
Tea or coffee? – Coffee, strong and frequent
Writing style? – Dense, passionate, and analytical
Favourite subject? – History and political economy
Pet peeve? – Exploitation and injustice
Favourite phrase? – "Religion is the opium of the people"
Most worn item? – Ink-stained shirt cuffs
Known for? – Challenging capitalism at its core
Private personality? – Affectionate father, loyal friend, often ill
Biggest supporter? – Friedrich Engels
Legacy in one word? – Revolutionary
"To the world he was Karl Marx. To me, he was a brilliant, difficult, loving father."
— Eleanor Marx, daughter
A Life in Pictures
“He gave his life to ideas — not just to write them down, but to wake the world up.”
— Friedrich Engels, friend & collaborator
Life Timeline
“He had fire in his words and warmth in his heart. Behind the beard was a man who loved fiercely.”
— Wilhelm Liebknecht, family friend
A few of my Favourite Things
Flower: Wild red carnations
Book: The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith (which he critiqued heavily)
Food: Pickled herring and simple stews
Drink: Black coffee and cheap wine
Pastime: Reading in the British Museum
Cause: Workers’ rights, equality, and free education
Pet Name: Called “The Moor” by friends for his dark hair and complexion
“He taught me to think, to question, to feel. He wasn’t just my father — he was my fiercest ally.”
— Eleanor Marx, daughter
Memory Maps
Trier, Germany
Birthplace and early education.
Paris, France
Place of political awakening and collaboration with Engels.
Brussels, Belgium
Writing and activism
London, UK
Exile, family life, research and death.
Highgate, London
Final resting place.
“Karl believed no one should be forgotten. Not the poor, not the voiceless, not the ones history leaves behind.”
— Laura Lafargue, daughter
A Final Word
Thank you for taking a moment to remember Karl.
To understand Karl Marx is not simply to read his works — it is to recognise the questions he asked:
Why do we work the way we do?
Who holds the power? And how do we build a fairer world?
He was flawed, fierce, and unforgettable. His writings outlived empires. His words ignited revolutions.
And yet at his core, he was simply a man who believed the world could be better — and that thinking people must do something about it.
Rest in thought, Karl.
Your legacy was never meant to be quiet.
www.legacy-stones.com