Archduchess Maria Theresa was a prominent figure in European history, born on May 13, 1717, in Vienna, Austria. She became the only female ruler of the Habsburg Empire and reigned from 1740 until her death in 1780. Maria Theresa was known for her significant reforms in government, education, and military organization, which helped modernize her empire. As a mother of 16 children, she arranged many strategic marriages for her offspring, strengthening alliances across Europe. Her daughter, Marie Antoinette, became the Queen of France, highlighting Maria Theresa's influence on European politics. She is remembered as a powerful and effective leader.