The War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748) was a major conflict in Europe that arose after the death of Emperor Charles VI. He had ensured that his daughter, Maria Theresa, would inherit the Habsburg lands, but many European powers contested this claim. The war involved several nations, including Prussia, France, Great Britain, and Austria, each seeking to expand their influence and territory. The conflict saw battles across Europe and in colonial territories, with notable events like the Battle of Dettingen and the Siege of Prague. The war ended with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748, which restored many territories but did not resolve the underlying tensions, setting the stage for future conflicts.