Advanced Placement (AP) World History Practice Exam 2025 - Free AP World History Practice Questions and Study Guide

Maria Theresa is recognized as the queen of Austria who worked to limit papal influence during her reign. She ascended to the throne in the 18th century and became the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions. Her reign is marked by significant reforms, particularly in the areas of administration, education, and military organization.

One of her notable achievements was the introduction of state control over various aspects of governance, which included curbing the influence of the Catholic Church on her policies and decisions. This highlighted her desire to strengthen the power of her authority and the central state. By asserting more control, she aimed to modernize and consolidate the Habsburg Empire, making her a significant figure in the shift towards a more centralized form of governance that characterized European states moving forward.

The other options present a misunderstanding of historical facts. The narrative of her life and policies in Austria distinctly underlines her role in centralizing authority and implementing reforms, rather than being tied to the other locations or titles mentioned.