I think this is a great introduction text to Marxism, even better than the Communist Manifesto, in my opinion. Shorter and simpler. http://www.marxists.org/archive/marx...1/prin-com.htm
If this had been the communist manifesto we would have won by now
I like the Manifesto better actually
I like them both in different ways- but the principles of communism is easier to cite in an argument in favour of marxism.
Both are great, The Communist Manifesto is better written and does a better job explaining the basics of the history and situation of the class struggle as well Captialism, Socialism, and Communism in my opinion. That being said The Principles of Communism is more direct, simple, and basic as well as giving you the basics in a direct and clear manner very quicly.
Principles is a better starting place for those new to leftism than the manifesto.
Also, in it Engels argues against Socialism in One Country
