Eduard Bernstein was a German social democratic theorist and politician, born on January 6, 1850. He is best known for his ideas on socialism and his critique of Marxist theory. Bernstein argued for a more gradual approach to achieving socialist goals, emphasizing the importance of democracy and reform rather than revolution. His most significant work, "Evolutionary Socialism," published in 1899, challenged the notion that a violent overthrow of capitalism was necessary. Bernstein's ideas laid the groundwork for modern social democracy, influencing various political movements across Europe and contributing to the development of labor parties.