Avusturya-Macaristan, or the Austro-Hungarian Empire, was a dual monarchy in Central Europe that existed from 1867 to 1918. It was formed by the union of the Austrian Empire and the Kingdom of Hungary, creating a complex political structure with two capitals: Vienna and Budapest. The empire was known for its diverse population, including various ethnic groups such as Germans, Hungarians, Slavs, and Italians. The empire played a significant role in European politics and culture during its existence. It was a major player in World War I, which ultimately led to its dissolution in 1918. Following the war, the territories of Avusturya-Macaristan were divided into several independent nations, including Austria, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, and Yugoslavia.