From the Reformation through the Napoleonic and Cold Wars to European Union, Austria stands at the center of the crucial struggle to unite Europe. Noted historian Brook-Shepherd recounts Austria's full story up to its millennial anniversary. "Engrossing, elegantly written history."--"Publishers Weekly." of photos and maps.

This is a masterful survey of Austria's controversial place at the heart of European history. From the Reformation through the Napoleonic and Cold Wars to European Union, a superb history of Austria's central role in uniting Western civilization is covered. 24 pages of photographs and maps are included. "Connoisseurs of Austria and its delightful and infuriating inhabitants will agree that Mr. Brook-Shepherd has got it just about right. ''The Wall Street Journal "Engrossing, elegantly written history. ''Publishers Weekly