History of Austria

Landlocked in central Europe, the Republic of Austria—in full, Austria—is evidence of human presence in the Paleolithic era; its history goes back far further.

Ancient History

About 800 BC, Austria was home to a sizable Celtic colony. The main residents of this land were the Austrians, from whom the nation's name came. From 15 BC until almost 400 years later, Austria was a component of the Roman Empire.

Etymology of Austria

Originally used in Old High German as "eastern realm," Austria receives its name from this word. This phrase describes the ninth-century eastern territories of Charlemagne's dominion. Eventually, this name came to be known as Vienna in English, but over time, it evolved into the contemporary German "Österreich" and subsequently Austria.

Prehistory and antiquity 

Human presence in Austria may be found, as was already established, since the Paleolithic age. During this period, one tribe and culture settled: the Romans, Celts, and Illyrians. From the Roman Empire, this era had the most important impact on Austrian history.

Middle Ages

The previous Roman Empire collapsed in the fifth century, and the Huns, a Germanic nation, entered Austria. Invaded by Slavs, Avars, and the Bavarians. But Charlemagne just obtained these territories in the late eighth century.

Rise of Austria

Emerging in the 10th century, the House of Babenberg ruled most of modern-day Austria. Later, the Habsburgs expanded their land by armed conquest and calculated marriages, succeeding them. They were the ones turning Austria into one of Europe's major powers.

17th and 18th centuries

Among other wars, Austria fought in were the Thirty Years' War and the Austro-Turkish War. Still, the nation achieved success and saw significant cultural change.

Medieval Times

Germanic tribes ruled Austria initially until the early Middle Ages, but Charlemagne took it in the late 8th century. By the tenth century, Austria had evolved into Austria, a component of the Holy Roman Empire under the authority of the Babenbergs and the Habsburgs.

Rise of the Habsburg Dynasty

Responding in the 13th century, the Habsburg Empire dominated Austria for almost 600 years. Strategic marriages were well-known since they increased their territory and produced among the strongest families in Europe.

Austro-Hungarian Empire

Austria had political evolution, cultural flowering, and economic growth despite politically turbulent neighbors. Hungary joined the Austro-Hungarian Empire beginning in 1867, but Austria comprised two autonomous kingdoms. 

Republic of Austria

Following the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in World War I, Austria became a republic. Political upheaval; financial crisis; Nazi Germany took authority in 1938.

Post-World War II

The Allies invaded Austria following World War II; it became independent in 1955. It became a neutral country between opposing nations during the Cold War.

Modern Austria

Austria has lately developed into an affluent country with a high quality of living.  Its economy is strong; its landscape is beautiful; and its cultural tradition is great. Austria joined the European Union in 1995 and still has great influence in EU politics and the economy.

Cultural Heritage

Given its rich cultural past moulded by numerous civilizations, Austria is rightly among the most interesting places to visit. Its many sources affected art, music, architecture, and literature as well as other fields. Among eminent Austrians are Sigmund Freud, Gustav Klimt, Joseph Haydn, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Scenic Beauty

Apart from that, Austria boasts breathtaking natural surroundings; the Alps cover the bulk of them. Popular for hiking and skiing, the nation attracts visitors from all around. It also emphasizes great cities as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.

Strong Economy

Despite difficulties, Austria has developed a robust economy with a high degree of human development. One of the richest nations in the world, it boasts contemporary infrastructure, a highly qualified workforce, and an advanced industry base.

Independence

Though it has been altered occasionally, Austria has overcome many challenges on its route through history and has survived them to become the modern, powerful country it is today. The long history of Austria is shown from the early Romans to the present in Europe. Austria is still a valuable nation in the world, one that is flourishing and helping the world.

Government and politics

Our nation boasts a federal parliamentary republic as its democratic administration. Beyond the Chancellor, one should also consider the President, in authority over the government and the state. The Social Democratic Party and the Austrian People's Party are two entities having the most impact in the multi-party system Austria possesses. These two movements support the same political agenda.

Foreign relations

The UN, EU, and OSCE are among Austria's international memberships. The nation helps create peace and stability in the region and maintains excellent relations with its neighbors. Active participation in international diplomacy and tight diplomatic ties with most countries around define Austria.

Military 

The Austrian Armed Forces are the military of Austria, distinguished by well-trained personnel. Its primary purposes are national defense and peacekeeping operations. Austria eliminated conscription in 2005 and set up a professional military. It has no military affiliations and a long history of neutrality. Still, it helps the United Nations with international peacekeeping initiatives.

Administrative divisions 

Austria comprises nine federal states, each with its own capital and government. These states further separate local administration into districts and municipalities. The nation's government is dispersed, and the powers vested in the states are strong.

Geography and Climate

Mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers abound among the breathtaking natural beauties of the central European nation of Austria. The eastern areas have flatter and richer plains, while the Western Alps rule the Western and southern sections of the nation. 

Economy

Austria's economy and service sectors—banking, insurance, and tourism—are highlighted.  Cathode ray tube assembly, electronics, machinery, chemicals, plastics, and medicines thrive in the country.  Austria's economy relies on agriculture and dairy production.

Ethnic groups 

Although most of the population consists of ethnic Austrians, there is a significant minority of Turks, Serbs, and Croats. The nation also has a small but significant Jewish community. Austria is relatively cohesive despite its varied population.

Demographics

Most of Austria's almost 8 million residents live in cities. This nation boasts minimal unemployment and a high standard of living. Austria's society is rather varied and features many distinct ethnic groups and cultures. Officially German, additional minority languages are Hungarian, Slovene, and Croatian.

Language 

Though most people speak another dialect, German is Austria's official language. Also spoken in Austria are Turkish, Hungarian, Slovene, and Croatian.

Religion

Austrians are mostly Roman Catholic, with a Protestant minority. Additionally, the development of the Muslim community via immigration in recent years is a Muslim factor.

Education

Since education is so valued in Austria, it is free up until the secondary level. Among the top educational establishments worldwide, Austria boasts Graz University of Technology and the University of Vienna.

Cuisine

Rich and substantial, Austrian cuisine has been shaped by the neighboring countries. Along with strudel (pastry stuffed with fruit or cheese) and sausages, schnitzel, breaded and fried meat, is also popular. It also boasts Viennese coffee culture, and cafés abound in the cities.

Sports

The most widely used sport in Austria and a pillar of their society is skiing. Top sports include tennis, ice hockey, and football. Many amazing athletes from Austria have made their country proud in international tournaments.

Festivals and Celebrations

Austria boasts Christmas markets, the Wiener Wiesn-Fest in Vienna, and a February carnival called Fasching. Every region honors unique customs.

Culture and Art

Austria is the birthplace of Strauss, Beethoven, and Mozart, and it is Famous for its culture. The nation values the Baroque palaces of Vienna and Salzburg. Austrian artists have also made an impression in film, literature, and fine arts.

Tourism

Rich culture, historical cities, and amazing natural settings make Austria a popular travel destination. Every year, millions of visitors come to ski the Alps or discover the little towns and villages.