Which of the following best describes the proletariat?

The proletariat is best described as workers who owned no property. This term originates from Marxist theory, where it is used to identify the class of people who sell their labor for wages, and do not possess the means of production—such as factories or land. The concept of the proletariat contrasts sharply with the bourgeoisie, who are the owners of the means of production and typically hold wealth and power within capitalist societies.

Understanding this distinction is key to comprehending various socioeconomic dynamics, particularly in discussions about class struggle and the disparities between different societal groups. In a capitalist framework, the proletariat represents those who are economically disadvantaged, rely on wages, and often face exploitation by those in positions of economic power. This foundational understanding of the proletariat is crucial for grasping larger themes within cultural anthropology, such as inequality and labor relations across different cultures and historical contexts.