The Austrian Habsburgs were a powerful royal family that ruled over various European territories from the late Middle Ages until the early 20th century. They originated in the 11th century and became prominent through strategic marriages and territorial expansion. The dynasty played a significant role in shaping European politics, particularly in the Holy Roman Empire and Austria. The Habsburgs are known for their vast empire, which included regions like Hungary, Bohemia, and parts of Italy. Their influence peaked during the reign of Emperor Charles V, who ruled over a vast domain that spanned Europe and the Americas. The dynasty ended with the abdication of Emperor Charles I in 1918, following World War I.