Austrian rulers were primarily part of the Habsburg dynasty, which played a significant role in European politics from the late Middle Ages until the early 20th century. They ruled over a vast empire that included regions such as Austria, Hungary, and parts of Italy and Czech Republic. The Habsburgs were known for their strategic marriages, which expanded their influence across Europe. One of the most notable rulers was Emperor Franz Joseph I, who reigned from 1848 to 1916. His leadership saw significant changes, including the establishment of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1867. The Habsburgs' reign ended after World War I, leading to the dissolution of the empire and the establishment of new nation-states.