What is historical materialism according to Karl Marx?

Historical materialism is a theory of history associated with Karl Marx that posits that the economic structure of society—the "mode of production"—forms the foundation upon which all other social, political, and intellectual institutions are built.12

According to this theory, human history is driven by material conditions rather than ideas or spiritual forces. Marx argued that before humans can engage in any other activity, they must produce the means of their subsistence. This production relies on two primary elements:3
* Material forces of production: The raw materials and tools used to extract and process goods.32
* Social relations of production: The social and political arrangements, such as the division of labour, that regulate how production occurs.32

Marx maintained that the economic base determines the "superstructure" of society, including its laws, government, and social consciousness. As the forces of production evolve, they eventually conflict with existing social relations, leading to revolutionary upheavals and the transition to new economic systems. Consequently, Marx viewed history as a series of class struggles defined by these changing material realities.123