House of Habsburg

The House of Habsburg was

a premier European royal dynasty (15th–20th century) that dominated the Holy Roman Empire, Spain, and Austria-Hungary through strategic marriages and massive territorial accumulation. Originating in Switzerland, they ruled Austria for over 600 years, building a "global empire" under Charles V before splitting into Spanish and Austrian branches. 

Key Aspects of the Habsburg Family:

• Rise to Power: Began in the 13th century, with Rudolf I becoming German king in 1273. The family established their base in Austria.

• Expansion Strategy: Famous for the maxim "Let others wage war, you, happy Austria, marry," they accumulated huge territories in Spain, the Netherlands, Bohemia, and Italy, especially under Maximilian I.

• Global Dominion (16th Century): Under Charles V, the Habsburgs held the first empire upon which the "sun never set," controlling lands across four continents.

• Holy Roman Empire: Habsburgs held the imperial throne almost continuously from 1440 to 1806.

• Key Figures: Maximilian I, Charles V, Philip II, and Maria Theresa.

• End of Rule: The Spanish line ended in 1700, while the Austrian line continued as Emperors of Austria until the collapse of the Habsburg empire in 1918 after World War I. 

The dynasty often used consanguineous marriages to keep lands within the family, which ultimately led to the genetic decline and death of the Spanish branch