Book I. Introduction.--General effects of the Reformation.--Revolt of Matthias.

--The Emperor cedes Austria and Hungary to him.--Matthias acknowledged King of Bohemia.--The Elector of Cologne abjures the Catholic Religion. --Consequences.--The Elector Palatine.--Dispute respecting the Succession of Juliers.--Designs of Henry IV. of France.--Formation of the Union.--The League.--Death of the Emperor Rodolph.--Matthias succeeds him.--Troubles in Bohemia.--Civil War.--Ferdinand extirpates the Protestant Religion from Styria.--The Elector Palatine, Frederick V., is chosen King by the Bohemians.--He accepts the Crown of Bohemia.-- Bethlen Gabor, Prince of Transylvania, invades Austria.--The Duke of Bavaria and the Princes of the League embrace the cause of Ferdinand.-- The Union arm for Frederick.--The Battle of Prague and total subjection of Bohemia.