What problems did Maria Theresa face when she came to the throne?

When Maria Theresa ascended to the throne in 1740, she faced several significant challenges, including the War of the Austrian Succession, as her legitimacy was questioned by various European powers. Additionally, she inherited a diverse and sprawling empire with financial difficulties, military weaknesses, and internal dissent. Reforming the administration and modernizing the military were urgent priorities, as was securing her rule against both external threats and internal opposition. Balancing these issues while consolidating her authority proved to be a formidable task.