Who or what were the proles, in 1984?

THe Proles compromise the ignorant masses of society. THey are pretty much left alone by the party. They exist in a state of perpetual ignorance satisfying their immediate and primal desires. They care little about the Party or how they are governed.

Here is an older answer of mine for a similar question,

I think keeping them ignorant is an important one. The Proles pretty much are left alone. The Party seems to appeal to their baser instincts by giving them pornography and the lottery. They are kept ignorant though a decided lack of education. The Proles do not revolt because they simply don't know any better. Children, sex, alcohol, minimum of food...are all there to keep their little minds occupied. Hey, that's kind of like us!