The Habsburgs: The Rise and Fall of a World Power

This book by Martyn Rady offers a broad and detailed history of the Habsburg family, from their early roots to their zenith under Charles V and their subsequent decline.

It covers the complex and often messy history of the family, including their associations with the Holy Roman Empire, their control over various territories such as Spain, Austria, and other parts of Europe, and their cultural contributions.

The book highlights the family's strategic marriages, political maneuvers, and the impact of external forces on their rule, culminating in their eventual downfall by the time of World War I.