👉 The term "proletariat" refers to the class of people who are primarily engaged in manual labor, typically working as workers or peasants. They are often characterized by their low wages and poor living conditions, which are not sufficient for their basic needs such as food, housing, and healthcare. In capitalist societies, the proletariat is a significant part of the economy, serving as the primary producers and consumers of goods and services. However, in socialist systems, the proletariat is seen as an essential component of