Countess Maria Theresa was a prominent figure in the 18th century, known for her role in the Habsburg monarchy. Born in 1717, she became the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions and was a significant political leader during her reign. Her leadership was marked by various reforms that modernized her empire and strengthened its economy. She was married to Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor, and together they had 16 children, including Marie Antoinette, who later became the Queen of France. Countess Maria Theresa's legacy includes her efforts in education and military organization, which had lasting impacts on European history.