About the book: 2017 / The history of the Habsburg dynasty begins with the legend of the savior crows, who, due to the fact that one of the family did not keep the oath, became harbingers of misfortune and death for representatives of the dynasty. This family ruled Austria from 1278 to 1918, the Holy Roman Empire from 1438 to 1806, and Austria-Hungary from 1867 to 1918. Among the Habsburgs there were enlightened monarchs, such as Maximilian II, and mystics like Rudolf II; those who only had to wear the crown for a short time, like Albrecht III, and those who reigned “happily ever after,” like Maria Theresa. But one day, they say, a flock of ravens flew over Sarajevo, a shot was heard - and a war began, as a result of which not only the Habsburg Empire collapsed, but also many others. The Habsburg dream of uniting Europe under their scepter faded into oblivion. But many years passed, and Europe nevertheless became united, the European Union was born, at the origins of which stood Otto von Habsburg, a descendant of the imperial dynasty.