The book examines the interplay between popular patriotism and military culture in late imperial Austria (the western half of Austria-Hungary). For the period from the mid-nineteenth century to the outbreak of war in 1914, this study asks: firstly, how far did imperial Austrian society experience a process of militarization comparable to that of other European countries; and secondly, how far did the military sphere foster popular patriotism in the multinational state? After exploring the historical development of military culture in the Habsburg Monarchy, the book explores how the long reign ... More

The book examines the interplay between popular patriotism and military culture in late imperial Austria (the western half of Austria-Hungary). For the period from the mid-nineteenth century to the outbreak of war in 1914, this study asks: firstly, how far did imperial Austrian society experience a process of militarization comparable to that of other European countries; and secondly, how far did the military sphere foster popular patriotism in the multinational state? After exploring the historical development of military culture in the Habsburg Monarchy, the book explores how the long reign of Emperor Franz Joseph I constituted a decisive phase in the militarization of Austrian society, with the dynasty and state emphasizing the military’s role as the main locus of loyalty. Popular manifestations of military culture, such as the hero cult surrounding Field Marshal Radetzky and military veterans’ associations, complemented this official agenda in many respects. However, veterans’ associations simultaneously constituted a political mobilization of the lower-middle and lower classes, who asserted their own interests and position in civil society, as is shown by case studies of regions with significant Italian-speaking populations (Trentino and the Littoral). The Austrian state’s attempts to assert greater control over veterans activities led to national and political opposition at a time when tensions over militarism and foreign policy increased. The study thus asks whether the military was really a bulwark of the multinational state or rather a polarizing force in imperial Austrian society.