How did Joseph II’s relationship with Maria Theresa affect his early political role?

The relationship between Joseph II and his mother, Maria Theresa, significantly constrained his early political influence. Although Joseph became Holy Roman emperor and co-regent of the Austrian Habsburg dominions following the death of his father, Francis I, in 1765, Maria Theresa retained the vast majority of executive authority.123

This power dynamic led to frequent, intense clashes between the two strong-willed leaders. Maria Theresa’s conservative approach often stood in direct opposition to Joseph’s interest in the Enlightenment and his admiration for Frederick the Great. Their disagreements were so profound that they included threats of abdication from both sides. Consequently, while Joseph was appointed to the Council of State and exhibited great intelligence, his ability to implement independent policies was severely limited until he became sole ruler upon his mother's death in 1780.2341