This survey covers the last two centuries of Habsburg rule from the great xxx; though troubled xxx; years of Maria Theresa and Joseph II, through the turmoil of the Napoleonic era, the long reign of Francis Joseph, when the dramatic nature of Habsburg rule came under increasing pressure and ends with the empire's dramatic disintegration after World War One. Primarily a political narrative, there is also discussion of economic developments, social, ethnic and cultural tensions. A timely examination of this critical period of central European history which enhances our understanding of current events in the Balkans.

Auteur

Jean Berenger, C.A. Simpson

Résumé
This is the eagerly awaited second volume of Jean Berenger's history of the Habsburgs. It covers the last two centuries of their rule and provides a compelling account of the fluctuations of Habsburg dynastic power and its disintegration after World War One. Berenger gives a rich portrait of Habsburg greatness under Maria Theresa and Joseph II and shows how their successors proved more adroit at riding the tide of nationalism in their multi-ethnic empire than is often recognised.

Contenu

Introduction The Habsburg inheritance, 1273-1700. 1. The war of the Spanish Succession 1665-1713. 2. The achievement of Charles VI, 1711-1740. 3. A great power on a fragile basis. 4. The accession of Maria Theresa and the crisis of 1740. 5. The age of enlightenment and Austrain society. 6. Joseph II, enlightened despot. 7. Leopold II and the end of the enlightenment, 1790-92. 8. Austria confronts the French Revolution, 1792-1815. 9. The age of Metternich, 1815-48. 10. The Revolution of 1848. 11. The rear guard fights back, 1849-67. 12. 1886: the decisive year. 13. The Austro-Hungarian compromise, 1867. 14. Economic expansion during the reign of Francis Joseph.