Definition
Klemens von Metternich (1773β1859) was an Austrian diplomat and statesman. He was one of the most important figures in European politics during the first half of the 19th century. Metternich served as the Austrian Foreign Minister and Chancellor. He was a master of diplomacy, known for his conservative views. Think of him as a political chessmaster, always planning several moves ahead. His goal was to maintain stability in Europe after the Napoleonic Wars.