Eastern European history is marked by a diverse tapestry of cultures and influences. This region includes countries like Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, which have experienced various empires, such as the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. The fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 significantly reshaped the political landscape, leading to the independence of several nations. Throughout the 20th century, Eastern Europe faced significant challenges, including two World Wars and the Cold War. The region has also been a site of social and political movements, such as the Solidarity movement in Poland, which played a crucial role in the fight against communist rule.