The Habsburgs: The Rise and Fall of a World Power

Martyn Rady's The Habsburgs is a great book that tells the epic story of a dynasty and the world they built and lost over a millennium. From modest origins, they grew in power to control the Holy Roman Empire, expanding their possessions to include a large part of Europe, the Far East, and the New World. The family's belief in their mission to rule the world as defenders of the Roman Catholic Church, guarantors of peace, and patrons of learning drove their endurance, and their impact can still be seen in countless buildings, institutions, and works of art scattered around the world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 03 March 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The Habsburgs: An Epic Story of a Dynasty and the World It Built - and Then Lost

In his captivating book, "The Habsburgs," Martyn Rady delves into the epic tale of a dynasty and the world it created, only to crumble over a span of nearly a millennium. Starting from modest beginnings, the Habsburgs rose to prominence, ultimately gaining control of the Holy Roman Empire in the fifteenth century. Their empire expanded rapidly, encompassing a vast expanse of Europe, stretching from Hungary to Spain, and from the Far East to the New World. The Habsburg family maintained their dominance in Central Europe until the devastating consequences of the First World War.

The Habsburg Empire, characterized by its disjointed collection of territories, complex legal system, and diverse array of languages, may appear haphazard and incomplete. However, as Martyn Rady reveals, there were profound reasons behind the family's remarkable endurance. Driven by a belief in their divine mission to rule the world as defenders of the Roman Catholic Church, guarantors of peace, and patrons of learning, the Habsburg emperors exhibited a wide range of personalities, from warlords to contemplatives, from clever to foolish, and from idle to frenzied. Despite their diverse characters, they were united by a shared sense of family duty.

Throughout the world, countless buildings, institutions, and works of art bear witness to the profound impact of the Habsburgs. Their legacy endures, shaping Europe and the world in profound ways. "The Habsburgs" stands as the definitive history of this remarkable dynasty, offering a comprehensive and insightful exploration of their rise, reign, and ultimate downfall. Whether you are a student, scholar, or simply a passionate reader, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex and fascinating history of the Habsburgs.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141987200