What did Marx believe would ultimately supersede capitalism?

Marx believed that socialism would ultimately supersede capitalism as part of his broader theory of historical materialism. He posited that societies progress through certain stages of economic development, which are driven by class struggles. According to Marx, capitalism, characterized by private ownership of the means of production and the exploitation of the working class (proletariat) by the capitalist class (bourgeoisie), would inevitably lead to its own downfall due to internal contradictions and class conflict.

As the proletariat becomes increasingly aware of their exploitation, they would rise up against the bourgeoisie, overthrowing the capitalist system. This revolution would lead to the establishment of socialism, wherein the means of production would be collectively owned, aiming to eliminate class distinctions and create a more equitable society. In Marx's view, socialism was not merely a transitional state but a necessary phase that would eventually give rise to communism—the final form of societal organization, characterized by a classless society.

This understanding of Marx's perspective demonstrates how he saw socialism as a logical and necessary progression from capitalism, driven by the dynamics of class struggle and economic development.