The Truth About Maria Theresa: The Empress Who Ruled the Habsburg Empire

The figure of Maria Theresa of Austria shines in the history of the Habsburg Empire, radiating greatness, power, and at the same time, an aura of decadence that captivates historians and curious minds alike. From her birth on May 13, 1717, in Vienna, to her death on November 29, 1780, her life was marked by political intrigue, military conflicts, and a notable transformation in the role of women in European politics. However, beneath her reign also lay court secrets and family tensions that reveal the fragility of power in the Habsburg dynasty. Let us explore this fascinating journey of power and ruin that defined one of the most emblematic figures in history.

The Ascension to the Throne: Maria Theresa's Great Challenge

The story of Maria Theresa begins in a context of crisis. Following the death of her father, Emperor Joseph I, in 1711, the Habsburg Empire faced a significant dilemma. Maria Theresa was the first woman to govern the empire at a time when male primogeniture was the norm. The Pragmatic Sanction of 1713, promulgated by her father, ensured her right to the throne, but rivals, particularly Frederick II of Prussia, quickly questioned that legitimacy. This challenge would lead to the famous Austrian Succession War (1740-1748), during which the young empress had to fight to maintain her claim to the throne and protect her territories.

The Reign of Maria Theresa: Reforms and Conflicts

Despite the difficulties, the reign of Maria Theresa is characterized by a series of reforms that transformed the Habsburg Empire. She introduced significant changes in administration, economy, and education, promoting a modern state and cen...