María Teresa of Austria was a prominent ruler in the 18th century, serving as the Archduchess of Austria and the last of the House of Habsburg. Born in 1717, she became the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions after her father, Charles VI, died in 1740. Her reign lasted until 1780 and was marked by significant reforms in administration, military, and education. She is best known for her efforts to modernize her empire and strengthen its central authority. María Teresa faced numerous challenges, including the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War, but she successfully maintained her family's power and legacy.