Marx as a Migrant – A digital narrative

Karl Marx lived a long life as a migrant. Fleeing from the Prussian state, censorship and possible arrest, important stops on his journey were Paris, Brussels and London. These cities shaped his political activities, his engagement with political fellow-travellers, as well as his intellectual development and thus his entire work.

At the click of a mouse, you can follow Marx as a migrant from city to city. You can not only immerse yourself in his time, but also discover that even today, traces of his life and work continue to be seen in Paris, Brussels and London.

Each station takes about 45 minutes.

Contact: info@marx200.org

Marx as a Migrant

  • Brussels
  • Arrival in Brussels

Marx in Belgium: Admitted, but with strings attached

As a young country, Belgium remained wary of diplomatic conflicts with its more established neighbours. Authorities in Brussels were warned that Marx was a “dangerous Democrat and Communist” – were he to become politically active in Belgium, it could lead to difficulties with Prussia which were best avoided. Marx’s residence application is more closely scrutinised than usual.

It was not until 22 March 1845 that he received a residence permit, subject to certain conditions, in the offices of Brussels’ Head of Security. Two days later he wrote to Heine in Paris: