The "Communist era" refers to a period in the 20th century when several countries adopted communist ideologies, primarily influenced by the ideas of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. This era saw the establishment of one-party states, where the government controlled the economy and aimed to eliminate class distinctions. Notable examples include the Soviet Union, China, and Cuba. During this time, many nations experienced significant social and economic changes, including land reforms and nationalization of industries. However, the era was also marked by political repression, censorship, and human rights abuses, as dissent was often met with harsh consequences.