The Habsburgs are the most famous dynasty of continental Europe. From the thirteenth to the twentieth century, they ruled much of Central Europe and were also the rulers of Spain for two centuries. Through their Spanish connection, they acquired territories around the Mediterranean and parts of the New World, reaching eastward to the Philippines. The Habsburg Empire stretched from Southeast Asia to present-day Ukraine and was truly global. In this "Very Short Introduction," Martin Rady examines the history of the Habsburgs, from their origins in tenth-century Switzerland to the dissolution of the Habsburg Empire in 1918. He introduces the succession of Habsburg rulers, including adventurers, lunatics, and at least one monarch whose true portrait could never be exhibited. He also discusses the lands and kingdoms that formed the Habsburg Empire and the defining moments that shaped its history. Dynasty, Europe, global power, and the idea of the multinational state all converge in the history of the Habsburg Empire, a story Martin Rady details. ABOUT THE SERIES: Oxford University Press's Very Short Introductions series includes hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These compact books are the perfect way to quickly familiarize yourself with a new topic. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspectives, fresh ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.