While many empires grew through conquest, the Habsburgs famously expanded through strategic alliances and inheritance.
This brought the wealthy Low Countries (modern Belgium and the Netherlands) into the fold. History of the Habsburg Empire: Rise and Declin...
The famous motto Bella gerant alii, tu felix Austria nube defined their ascent. Key unions included: While many empires grew through conquest, the Habsburgs
Under Charles V (r. 1519–1556), the empire reached its greatest territorial extent, functioning as the primary defender of Catholicism against the Ottoman Empire and the burgeoning Protestant Reformation. The Long Pivot: Division and Absolutism Key unions included: Under Charles V (r
The dynasty's prominence began when Rudolf I was elected King of the Germans in 1273. By 1282, the family secured the Duchy of Austria, making Vienna their administrative heart.
Their son, Charles V , inherited a staggering dominion including Spain, the Americas, Austria, and the Netherlands.