European Hegemony?

What's the best time and nation-state to create a long-lasting hegemony over a majority of Europe? Preferably this would also include the integration of the conquered territories as well. France comes to mind due to the disparity of population between France and the surrounding nations.
 
What's the best time and nation-state to create a long-lasting hegemony over a majority of Europe? Preferably this would also include the integration of the conquered territories as well. France comes to mind due to the disparity of population between France and the surrounding nations.

Hold together Charlemagne's empire and consolidate the North European plain from the Atlantic to the Oder under a single language and ruler. If it can then expand to the Danube and Vistula, you could get a China style situation of a common European core always reuniting as a "natural" unit.
 
IMO, either Germany(with a different unification that emphasizes on gaining and holding former Holy Roman territories) or Russia. Germany would have the best chance at overpowering Britain and isolating Russia. If given the right circumstances, Russia could overpower most of continental Europe, but island Europe would be harder,but still possible. Overall, Russia has the best chances of dominating the majority of Europe, since it wouldn't have to go through the trouble of dominating Russia.
 
Mongol invasions.
If they succeed you have the Holy Mongol Khanate.
If they fail you have a more unified Europe against asian threats (Frederick II is de-excommunicated and the leftovers of Eastern Europe side with/submit to him.).
 
Top