When looking at this course, German Culture History, I realize I have learned about the Hapsburgs and the Windsors. The Hohenzollerns; however, I have never heard of before (or at least remember). I am excited to learn about this Empire. I took a European History course last semester and heard "Hapsburg" a lot. Their empire grew like a wild fire. Through offspring and different marriages to other dynasties, the Hapsburg Empire totally surrounded France. This may be incorrect: it is understanding that the Hapsburg Empire was also a part of the Holy Roman Empire. This meant that the ruler of the Hapsburg Empire was also considered "Holy Roman Emperor". I may be wrong, though. This is a very sad description of their empire, for it is much more complex and very interesting from what I remember. I'm excited to learn the details of the Hapsburgs.
As for the Windsors, I absolutely love the British Royal family history. I do not know everything about it, but I am very fascinated by it. The time the Windsors were/are in rule would be considered the "House of Windsor". It has not always been the House of Windsor, however. Prior to this is was the House of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha. This was changed in the early 1900s due to a germanophobia of sorts during the First World War. The Windsor Monarchy is still alive today, with its ruler Queen Elizabeth II.
Unfortunately, I have no knowledge of the Hohenzollern Empire. I cannot wait to learn about it! European history is so interesting to me because it has influenced most of what we do today. It's fun to know where something originates and how it started. I really look forward to this summer semester course!
