As for the great war event I doubt it. The penguin atlas I own put it very nicely. before the great war all of the Great powers had the following in common, common language, religion, and ethnic composition. Germany was mostly German, mostly spoke German, and most Germans were of the same religion. Same with France, and Great Britain. But Austria? Ethnic mishmash, more languages then you can count, and practically every religion in Europe. What kind of nation does that make? Even the US (which is about as diverse in all these ways as you can get) at least had some things to create a unifying factor. Austria on the other hand does not. there is really no political, religious, ethnic, or any kind of factor that can create a united Empire.Interesting info Saladan, I'd imagine that Austria Hungary might adopt a governmental system akin to Germany's, considering the ties both nations have (you have the Emperor holding more of a symbolic position, a Chancellor/Prime Minister and a Legislature which has more power...).
I agree with you that most people in the Empire would view themselves as Croatian or Galacian or Czech as opposed to members of a united empire...is there any conseivable event post Great War that could change the perception of the majority of the Empires population to view themselves as Austro-Hungarian or some equivalent?
Hm...I don't know, maybe it's just me, but after the superbombing of Paris, Vienna strikes me as its successor in terms of art and culture...or is it just me...?