The story of communism–from its historical roots in idealism to its colossal downfall in our own time–constitutes an epic of human political, social, and economic experience. In this short and gracefully written text, Richard Hudelson provides the ideal introduction to this history for readers who may know little of communism beyond what they read in newspaper headlines. Beginning with the origins of the working-class movement in eighteenth-century Britain, Hudelson encapsulates the core of the history, philosophy, politics, and economics needed to grasp the essence of communist ideology. Throughout, Hudelson is sympathetic, yet hardly uncritical, as he emphasizes the gap between the ideals and the reality of twentieth-century communism. Readers will especially appreciate his discussion of the implications of the downfall of communism for other forms of socialism. This is the ideal "first book" on communism–an elemental introduction that brings students to a sophisticated understanding of communism. It will prove useful for students not only of Maixism but also of political ideologies, political and social thought, social movements, and many other topics that touch upon this crucial aspect of our twentieth century.