Maria Theresa was the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions, reigning from 1740 to 1780. She was born on May 13, 1717, and became the Archduchess of Austria and Queen of Hungary and Bohemia. Her reign marked significant reforms in administration, education, and military organization, strengthening her empire. As a mother of 16 children, Maria Theresa arranged many strategic marriages for her offspring, including her daughter Marie Antoinette, who became the Queen of France. Despite facing challenges, such as the War of the Austrian Succession, she successfully maintained her family's power and legacy throughout Europe.