Lafargue

Lafargue is a surname of French origin. It is most notably associated with Paul Lafargue, a French Marxist theorist, journalist, and political activist. Lafargue was born in Cuba in 1842 and was a prominent figure in the socialist movement in France. He was the son-in-law of Karl Marx, having married Marx's second daughter, Laura.

Paul Lafargue is best known for his essay "The Right to Be Lazy," published in 1883. In this work, he argued against the capitalist glorification of work and advocated for a society where individuals had more leisure time. He believed that the pursuit of profit had led to excessive labor and social alienation. Lafargue's ideas contributed to socialist thought by challenging the prevailing work ethic and suggesting alternative models for societal organization.

Beyond his theoretical contributions, Lafargue was actively involved in organizing workers and promoting socialist parties in France. He was a frequent writer for socialist publications and participated in numerous political debates. His life and work reflect a dedication to revolutionary change and the betterment of the working class. Lafargue died in 1911, along with his wife, in a suicide pact. The surname Lafargue continues to be found in various countries, though its prominence is primarily linked to the historical figure of Paul Lafargue.