Leninism is a political theory developed by Vladimir Lenin, which builds upon the ideas of Karl Marx. It emphasizes the need for a vanguard party to lead the working class in overthrowing capitalism and establishing a socialist state. Lenin argued that a disciplined party of professional revolutionaries was essential to guide the proletariat and ensure the success of the revolution. Leninism also advocates for the concept of a dictatorship of the proletariat, where the working class holds political power. This approach includes the nationalization of key industries and the redistribution of land to peasants, aiming to create a classless society through the establishment of communism.