Marx and Engels, like many of the radicals of their time, were strongly influenced by the German philosopher Hegel and his theory of the dialectical development of human society over time. Though in many ways their materialist approach was the opposite of Hegel’s, Hegel’s writing played a profound role in the development of Marx and Engels’ historical materialism. This talk introduces the concept of Hegel’s dialectical approach, its impact on Marx and Engels, and its usefulness today.