Austria/Hungary Social Progress

As the history of Europe progressed, many social changes came about. Through critcal time periods like the Black Death, Renaissance, Reformation, Enlightenment, and the many revolutions, Europe drastically progressed socially. During the Renaissance, people came to revivals and inspirations from classicism, and socially, people began to think outside of the box. The Reformation also had major social effects, as it completely changed peoples views on religion and the church. The Enlightenment was also a major factor in social progress, as it was responsible for many changes including the new concepts of freedom, democracy and reason as primary values of society. There were also many revolutions in European history, and these were also very important in social progress. People began to revolt, think for themselves, and work together to enforce their own change. Instead of being ruled, society became the rulers.

Austria's Political Progression During The MEH Period

Throughout the 14th and 15th centuries, Austria/Hungary was under the rule of the Hapsburg's. After their collapse, Austria became a world power and then in 1699, gained control of all of Hungary. Then in 1797, Austria went to war with France and after defeat to Napoleon, the H.R.E. fell in 1806. German-Austrian relations lead to an alliance that lasted throughout WWI and into WWII. Although Austria lost both of these wars, they escaped most of the blame when Germany was given heavy reparations and very negative treaty terms (especially in WWI).

Austria's political system became a federal, democratic republic in their 1920 constitution. The leader of Austria's parliament is and was a federal president that is elected by popular vote.

Austria progressed from the extrememly conservative government under Metternich to a democratic and free country.