In the 19th century, Austria was a significant European power, part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The empire was a multi-ethnic state, home to various nationalities, including Germans, Czechs, Hungarians, and Slovaks. This diversity often led to tensions and demands for greater autonomy among different groups. The century was marked by political changes, including the Revolutions of 1848, which sought to establish more democratic governance. The Habsburg dynasty ruled during this time, navigating challenges such as nationalism and industrialization, which transformed the economy and society across the empire.