Birth of Maria Theresa
Maria Theresa was born on May 13, 1717, in Vienna, Austria, to Emperor Charles VI and Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel.
1717
1736
Marriage to Francis Stephen of Lorraine
Maria Theresa married Francis Stephen of Lorraine on February 12, 1736, strengthening political alliances through their union.
1740
Accession to the Throne
Upon the death of her father, Emperor Charles VI, Maria Theresa ascended to the throne, becoming the Archduchess of Austria and Queen of Hungary and Bohemia.
1740-1748
War of Austrian Succession
Maria Theresa faced the War of Austrian Succession, defending her right to the throne against various European powers, ultimately securing her position through the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle.
1745
Francis I Elected Holy Roman Emperor
Maria Theresa's husband, Francis Stephen, was elected Holy Roman Emperor as Francis I, further solidifying her family's influence in Europe.
1756-1763
Seven Years' War
Maria Theresa engaged in the Seven Years' War, aiming to reclaim Silesia from Prussia, though the conflict ended with the status quo largely maintained.
1765
Death of Francis I
Francis I died in 1765, and Maria Theresa's son, Joseph II, became Holy Roman Emperor, co-ruling with his mother.
1765-1780
Co-regency with Joseph II
During this period, Maria Theresa co-ruled with her son Joseph II, implementing numerous reforms in the administration, military, and education sectors.
1772
First Partition of Poland
Maria Theresa participated in the First Partition of Poland, expanding the Habsburg territories by acquiring parts of Galicia.
1775
Acquisition of Bukovina
Under Maria Theresa's rule, the Habsburg Empire acquired Bukovina, further extending its influence in Eastern Europe.
1777
Educational Reforms
Maria Theresa introduced significant educational reforms, including the establishment of compulsory primary education, improving literacy rates across her dominions.
1780
Death of Maria Theresa
Maria Theresa died on November 29, 1780, in Vienna, leaving behind a legacy of reform and modernization in the Habsburg Empire.
1781
Joseph II Continues Reforms
Following Maria Theresa's death, her son Joseph II continued her legacy of reform, further modernizing the Habsburg administration and society.
1784
Maria Theresa's Influence on Later Policies
The policies and reforms initiated by Maria Theresa continued to influence the Habsburg Empire's governance and development well into the 19th century.
2024
Legacy of Maria Theresa
Maria Theresa remains a significant historical figure, celebrated for her contributions to the Habsburg Empire and her role in shaping modern European history.
