Introduction: Flashpoints on the Road to 1918

Austin defines what makes Central Europe a distinct and unique region, providing an overview of Central European history up to the First World War. The chapter begins with a survey of contemporary monuments in Budapest, Prague, Warsaw, and Berlin, along with explanations of how Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Germany have grappled with their often dark pasts. After looking at the 1848 revolutions and the nation builders of the nineteenth century, Austin discusses the importance of German unification and the dual compromise that created Austria-Hungary. The chapter ends with a discussion of the First World War, where Austin argues the Habsburg Empire was not destined to collapse, but circumstances made it impossible for the Empire to continue.