A dual monarchy, inhabited by several nationalities and comprising two
semi-independent countries, each with its own government but also with a
common parliament, army and emperor, Francis Joseph. He belongs to the
house of Hapsburg, which has ruled Austria for six hundred years, and
himself has held the throne at Vienna since 1848.
Austria possesses important ports on the Adriatic, and if she had
territory in the Balkan peninsula might gain access to the Mediterranean
and prevent Russia from doing the same. She once tried to reach the sea
through Italy, but failed. The growth of the Slavic states in the
Balkans is directly contrary to Austrian interests and ambitions. A
power occupying the Balkan peninsula might easily control the Suez
Canal, connecting Europe with the Orient.
Agriculture is the principal pursuit, and Austria is able to supply her
own food. In the north, wheat and barley grow, and corn in the south.
The mineral wealth is great--coal and salt abound. Cotton, woolen, linen
and silk goods are manufactured; also metals, glass, leather and musical
instruments. Commerce is mainly with Germany and Turkey.