Maria Teresa of Austria was born on May 13, 1717, and became the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions. She ascended to the throne in 1740 after her father, Charles VI, died. Her reign lasted until 1780 and was marked by significant reforms in administration, education, and military organization. As a leader, Maria Teresa faced numerous challenges, including the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Despite these conflicts, she successfully strengthened her empire and implemented policies that improved the welfare of her subjects, leaving a lasting legacy in European history.