Maria Theresa is known as the ruler who effectively governed the Habsburg Monarchy and held significant influence in Europe during her lifetime. As the eldest surviving child of Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI, Maria Theresa was not initially expected to inherit her father's throne. However, when her father failed to produce a male heir, she was formally trained in statecraft and the art of governance. Her intended groom, Leopold Clement, died from an illness, and she eventually married his younger brother, Francis Stephen of Lorraine. After her father's death, several neighboring powers seized the opportunity to invade her lands, sparking the War of the Austrian Succession. Although Maria Theresa began her reign with a depleted treasury and limited leadership experience, she quickly proved her capability by doubling the empire’s income and building a strong standing army. Despite the turmoil of multiple wars, including the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War, she managed to preserve her empire. Maria Theresa’s intellect and dedication led to a cultural renaissance in her empire, and she implemented crucial educational and judicial reforms. She also successfully married off her children into Europe’s royal houses, securing alliances. Maria Theresa passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most powerful female monarchs of the early modern era.