The assassination attempt against Franz Joseph succeeds in 1853 and Maximilian is shortly crowned Emperor, the Mexican adventure being butterflied away.
What would happen? Could Maximilian's idealism lead to a better Ausgleich? Does his enthusiasm for the navy lead to Austria being a stronger naval power? Would he make the bid for controlling Germany and face Prussia? Would he support Napoleon III?
What would happen? Could Maximilian's idealism lead to a better Ausgleich? Does his enthusiasm for the navy lead to Austria being a stronger naval power? Would he make the bid for controlling Germany and face Prussia? Would he support Napoleon III?