Friedrich Engels originally published his famous treatise in 1884 in Switzerland. In 1892, the work was released in an expanded form in Stuttgart. This version serves as the basis for the present volume. Engels first examines the development of human society from prehistoric times to the Roman Empire, distinguishing between the phases of savagery, barbarism, and civilization. In a second approach, the author parallels this development of cultural stages with the various family forms, from the original blood kinship to monogamous marriage. Engels' work is considered a significant impetus for the emergence of modern sociology, particularly economic and state sociology.