The term "Austro-Hungarians" refers to the citizens of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a dual monarchy that existed from 1867 to 1918. This empire was formed by the union of the Austrian Empire and the Kingdom of Hungary, and it included various ethnic groups such as Czechs, Slovaks, Croats, and Romanians. The capital cities were Vienna for Austria and Budapest for Hungary. The Austro-Hungarian Empire was known for its diverse culture, languages, and traditions, reflecting the various nationalities within its borders. It played a significant role in European politics and was a major player in events leading up to World War I. The empire ultimately dissolved after the war, leading to the establishment of several independent nations.