The foundation of the Empire of Austria in 1804
1804–1806
On 11 August 1804 Emperor Franz issued a Patent or edict announcing his assumption of the title and office of Emperor of Austria. This move was undertaken in reaction to the coronation of Napoleon as Emperor of the French.
From then on, the title of Emperor of Austria was hereditary in the House of Habsburg, replacing the title of Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, which was on the brink of dissolution and was finally declared dissolved in 1806.
