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Portrait Maria Theresia im Spitzenkleid c1740

Events from the year 1741 in Austria

Incumbents

Events

In 1741, Austria faced significant political and military challenges during the War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748). This war was a result of a power struggle among European nations after the death of Emperor Charles VI, the last male Habsburg ruler. He had passed the Pragmatic Sanction in 1713, which allowed his daughter Maria Theresa to succeed him as ruler of the Habsburg lands. However, when Charles VI died in 1740, several European powers contested Maria Theresa's right to the throne.

Key events during 1741:

The outbreak of the First Silesian War: Frederick II of Prussia, also known as Frederick the Great, invaded the Austrian province of Silesia in December 1740. In 1741, the war intensified, with Prussian forces successfully occupying Silesia and defeating the Austrian army in battles like the Battle of Mollwitz (April 10, 1741). This conflict was a part of the larger War of the Austrian Succession and marked the beginning of a series of Silesian Wars between Austria and Prussia.

Invasion of Bohemia: In September 1741, French, Bavarian, and Saxon forces allied against Austria, invaded the Habsburg territory of Bohemia, further weakening Maria Theresa's position. By November, the combined forces had captured the city of Prague.

Loss of support: Maria Theresa had hoped to gain the support of other European powers to secure her claim to the throne. However, several countries, including Spain, France, Prussia, Bavaria, and Saxony, formed alliances against Austria, challenging her rule and territorial claims.

The struggle for survival: Despite these challenges, Maria Theresa showed great determination and diplomatic skills. She managed to gain the loyalty of the Hungarian nobility, who supported her rule in exchange for her recognition of Hungary's traditional liberties. This support allowed her to raise an army to defend her territories and fight back against her adversaries.

In summary, 1741 was a challenging year for Austria, as Maria Theresa faced invasions, territorial losses, and a coalition of powerful enemies during the War of the Austrian Succession. However, her resilience and diplomatic efforts would eventually help her secure her position as ruler of the Habsburg lands and maintain Austria as a major European power.

Births

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References

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