Maria Theresa (1717-1780) was the ruler of the Habsburg Monarchy, a sprawling empire that included Austria, Hungary, Bohemia, and other territories spread out across Italy, the Netherlands, and Central Europe. Though her ascension to the throne was contested by rival European powers in the War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748), she emerged from that conflict in a stronger and more secure position. She implemented several long-lasting reforms within the Habsburg domains and restored the military and economic power of Austria. One of the most important rulers of the 18th century, Maria Theresa certainly left a lasting mark on Europe during her 40-year reign.
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Timeline
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18 Aug 1765Death by heart attack of Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor, the husband of Empress Maria Theresa, aged 56, in Innsbruck, Austria.
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1772First Partition of Poland; Polish territories are carved up between Frederick the Great of Prussia, Catherine the Great of Russia, and Maria Theresa of Austria.
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13 May 1779The Treaty of Teschen concludes the War of Bavarian Succession; Maria Theresa relinquishes all of Bavaria.
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29 Nov 1780Death of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria in Vienna, aged 63.
