Focusing on the era of Emperor Franz Joseph, explores factors which led to Austris-Hungary's disintegration and its pivotal role in the crisis which dragged Europe into war. Examines the rise of mass political parties, the degradation of Austria's agricultural and industrial sectors, conflicts inherent in the Dual Monarchy within a constitutional framework of weak liberal political mechanisms, and Austria's failure to resolve the demands of multiculturalism stemming from its origins as the amalgamation of 11 different nations. Paper edition (unseen) $23.95. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR