The historical evolution of Marxist ideology theory can be divided into the following stages according to the logic of temporal development: The first stage is the origin phase of the term "ideology," starting from Plato's theory of the cave and Bacon's theory of the four idols, as well as Hegel's philosophy of idealism. The second stage sees Marx and Engels deepen the concept of "ideology," gradually forming Marxist ideology theory. After conducting a thorough analysis of capitalist society, Marx and Engels proposed the path to liberation of the proletariat and the socialist revolution. The third stage is Lenin's period of further application of Marxist ideology theory, where Lenin developed Marxist ideology theory based on Marxism, constructing Marxism-Leninism, and established the world's first socialist state. The fourth stage involves the different interpretations and thoughts on Marxist ideology theory by main representatives of Western Marxism, such as Lukács, Gramsci, and Marcuse. The fifth stage is the Sinicization development of Marxist ideology theory, beginning with Mao Zedong, who, based on Marxism and combined with the practice of the Chinese revolution, proposed the theories of New Democracy revolution and socialist revolution, establishing the People's Republic of China. This is followed by Deng Xiaoping's flexible application of Marxist ideology theory, where he advocated the principles of "liberating thought and seeking truth from facts."Later on, leaders of our country have put forward new concepts of Marxist ideological theory that suited China's national conditions at the time. Now, entering the new era, General Secretary Xi Jinping has repeatedly emphasized that the work on Marxist ideology is an extremely important task for the Party. We hold high the great banner of socialism with Chinese characteristics, which is of great significance for the construction of the Communist Party of China and the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics, providing important theoretical support for China's development in the new era.
In summary, the evolution of Marxist ideological theory from its inception to its gradual sinicization has showcased the different understandings and applications of Marxist ideologists under various historical backgrounds. It brings us valuable insights: Marxism must keep up with the times, constantly adapting to the needs of social development and the reality, always taking the interests and happiness of the people as the fundamental starting point and foothold.