Vanguard facts for kids
A vanguard is a small group of people who lead a movement or an army. The word comes from two old French words: avant, meaning "front," and garde, meaning "guard." Think of them as the first ones to go forward.
What is a Vanguard?
A vanguard is usually a small group that goes ahead of a larger group. They are often leaders or explorers. They might be looking for new ideas or new paths.
Vanguard in the Military
In the military, a vanguard is a group of soldiers who march or ride ahead of the main army. Their job is very important. They scout the area to find out what is ahead. They also protect the main army from surprise attacks. This way, the larger army can move safely.
Vanguard in Politics
In politics, the idea of a "vanguard" is sometimes used differently. For example, in the political ideas of Leninism, a "vanguard party" is a small group of very dedicated revolutionaries. These people believe strongly in their cause. They are meant to lead the Communist movement. In Russia, this group was supposed to guide the working class towards a new society. They were seen as the most aware and committed members of the movement.
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