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Manifesto Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manifesto

[mรฆnษชหˆfษ›stoสŠ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

political statement

A manifesto is a public declaration of principles, policies, or intentions, often issued by a political party or candidate. It outlines the goals and beliefs of the group or individual, providing insights into their planned actions and the rationale for their positions. This genre of writing serves as both a promotional tool and a means of rallying support. Manifestos can be found in various movements, from art and literature to social and political causes, often marking a significant moment in a particular ideology's evolution.

Synonyms

declaration, platform, proclamation.

Examples of usage

  • The political party released its manifesto before the elections.
  • Many artists create manifestos to express their beliefs.
  • The revolutionaries published a manifesto to inspire the populace.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originates from the Latin word 'manifestus,' meaning 'clear' or 'evident,' highlighting transparency in intentions.
  • The first modern manifesto, The Communist Manifesto, was published in 1848 by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, outlining their revolutionary ideas.
  • Manifestos have been influential in starting social and political movements, making them key documents in history.

Cultural Significance

  • Political manifestos often shape election platforms and are used to communicate a party's vision to its voters.
  • Artistic manifestos, like the Futurist Manifesto by Filippo Tommaso Marinetti, celebrate new ideas in art and culture, challenging traditional norms.
  • In music, manifestos can outline an artist or band's ethos, defining their creative direction and impacting their fan base.

Literature

  • The concept of manifestos has been explored in literature, providing a narrative voice for dissent and aspirations.
  • Famous authors like Virginia Woolf and James Baldwin have written manifestos to articulate their thoughts on society and identity.
  • Manifestos in literature often invite readers to engage actively with the author's vision, blurring the lines between art and activism.

Psychology

  • Crafting a manifesto can serve as a therapeutic exercise, helping individuals clarify their values and goals.
  • In group dynamics, a shared manifesto can strengthen team cohesion by aligning members' beliefs and motivations.
  • Studies suggest that writing down beliefs increases personal accountability and the likelihood of following through on commitments.

Pop Culture

  • Manifestos appear in movies and TV shows, often symbolizing characters' growth or revolutionary change, such as in 'V for Vendetta'.
  • In video games, manifestos can serve as plots or backstories, giving depth to characters by revealing their motivations.
  • Social media has made it easier for individuals to share personal manifestos, influencing movements like climate change activism and body positivity.

Origin of 'manifesto'

The term 'manifesto' originates from the Latin word 'manifestus', which means 'clear' or 'evident'. The use of the word in English dates back to the 17th century, evolving to refer specifically to a written statement that publicly declares one's beliefs or intentions. The concept of a manifesto became particularly prominent during the 19th century alongside various political movements, as individuals and groups sought to outline their demands and ideologies. Famous manifestos, such as 'The Communist Manifesto' by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, have left a significant impact on political thought and social change. Over time, the term has expanded beyond politics to encompass various fields, including art, literature, and philosophy, where individuals may articulate their vision and purpose.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,409, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.