The term "Balkan Empires" refers to the various empires that historically controlled parts of the Balkans, a region in Southeast Europe. Notable empires include the Ottoman Empire, which dominated the area from the 14th to the early 20th century, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which expanded into the region in the 19th century. These empires significantly influenced the culture, politics, and demographics of the Balkans. The decline of these empires in the 19th and early 20th centuries led to the rise of national movements among the various ethnic groups in the region. This period saw the emergence of independent states such as Serbia, Greece, and Bulgaria, which sought to establish their own identities and governance, shaping the modern political landscape of the Balkans.