History
War of the Austrian Succession Explained
A conflict that engulfed Europe over Maria Theresa's right to the Habsburg throne, reshaping alliances and the balance of power on the continent.
What is it?
The War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748) was a major European conflict triggered by the death of Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI. The central issue was the legitimacy of his daughter, Maria Theresa, inheriting the Habsburg lands under the Pragmatic Sanction of 1713. This claim was contested by several powers, notably Prussia under Frederick the Great, who invaded the rich province of Silesia. The dispute quickly escalated, involving most of Europe's great powers. Austria found support from Great Britain and the Dutch Republic, while an opposing coalition was formed by Prussia, France, and Spain.
Why is it trending?
This war remains a pivotal event as it marked the dramatic rise of Prussia as a major European military power, directly challenging Austrian dominance in German affairs. The conflict illustrated a fundamental shift in diplomacy, with nations forming alliances based on pragmatic interests rather than old loyalties. It was a global struggle, with related conflicts such as King George's War in North America and the First Carnatic War in India, underscoring the escalating colonial rivalry between Britain and France. The war's indecisive conclusion and the unresolved tensions directly set the stage for the even larger Seven Years' War.
How does it affect people?
For ordinary people, the war meant widespread hardship. Vast armies campaigning across Europe led to increased taxes, forced conscription, and the devastation of farmlands and villages. Major battles resulted in thousands of casualties, and the conflict extended to colonial territories, where it manifested as raids and attacks on settlers. The peace treaty in 1748, the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, confirmed Maria Theresa's rule over most of the Habsburg domains but forced her to cede Silesia to Prussia. This territorial change permanently altered the European balance of power, creating a new rivalry that would fuel future conflicts.