War of the Austrian Succession

War of the Austrian Succession was fought between 1740 and 1748. The period was characterized by several related conflicts involving most of the states of Europe. The conflicts started after the death of the Emperor Charles VI and accession of his daughter Maria Theresa to the throne in 1740. The War began on December 16, 1740 with invasion of Silesia, one of the richest Habsburg provinces, by Frederick II of Prussia. The war ended with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748. Maria Theresa's succession was ultimately confirmed as Archduchess of Austria and Queen of Hungary. However, Silesia remained under Prussia.