Austrian Habsburgs

The Austrian Habsburgs were a powerful European royal family that ruled Austria and large parts of Central and Eastern Europe for centuries, particularly from the late Middle Ages until the early 20th century. They were known for their strategic marriages, which helped expand their influence and territory without constant warfare. The Habsburgs presided over a vast multi-ethnic empire, including regions that are now parts of Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Italy. Their rule ended after World War I, which led to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the establishment of modern nation-states in Central Europe.