Chapter 31

JOSEPH II. AND LEOPOLD II. From 1780 to 1792.

Accession of Joseph II.--His Plans of Reform.--Pius VI.--Emancipation of the Serfs.--Joseph's Visit to his Sister, Maria Antoinette.--Ambitious Designs.--The Imperial Sleigh Ride.--Barges on the Dneister.--Excursion to the Crimea.--War with Turkey.--Defeat of the Austrians.--Great Successes.--Death of Joseph.--His Character.--Accession of Leopold II.--His Efforts to confirm Despotism.--The French Revolution.--European Coalition.--Death of Leopold.--His Profligacy.--Accession of Francis II.--Present Extent and Power of Austria.--Its Army.--Policy of the Government. Page 493