The Agile Manifesto is a brief document that outlines the key values and principles of Agile software development. Created in 2001 by a group of software developers, the manifesto emphasizes the importance of collaboration, flexibility, and delivering functional software. It contrasts with traditional development methodologies, which often focus heavily on detailed documentation, rigid processes, and long planning cycles.

The Agile Manifesto consists of four core values: individuals and interactions over processes and tools, working software over comprehensive documentation, customer collaboration over contract negotiation, and responding to change over following a plan. Additionally, it includes twelve principles that guide Agile teams in delivering high-quality software. The manifesto has become a foundational document in the software industry, influencing a wide range of Agile frameworks and practices, including Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Programming (XP).