Through newly unpublished sources, Bassett paints a vivid portrait of Maria Theresa - one of Europe’s most influential rulers, who defied the gender norms of her time and left a profound legacy that continues to shape Austria and Europe today. His recent biography of Maria Theresa offers a compelling and accessible account of the Empress’s life, values, and contradictions.

About the Speaker
Richard Bassett read Law at Cambridge and earned an MA in the History of Art from the Courtauld Institute. He served as a foreign correspondent for The Times in the 1980s and 1990s, covering Austria and the wider Central and Eastern European region. He is currently a Bye-Fellow of Christ’s College, Cambridge.

Bassett is also the last Englishman to have interviewed Empress Zita and the last historian to have known WWI air ace Gottfried Banfield. His career spans music, journalism, and senior roles in European finance, and his acclaimed works include Last Days in Old Europe, Admiral Wilhelm Canaris, and a celebrated history of the Habsburg Army. 

This event is part of our Distinguished Speaker Series and marks the 30th anniversary of the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Austria. Members of the UK Alumni and Ivy League alumni societies will also be invited, as we open up on this special occasion.  Ticket cost includes pre-drinks and finger food. You can invite guests.

The talk will last approximately 30 minutes, followed by a Q&A session and informal networking.