How did the War of the Austrian Succession change the balance of power between Austria and Prussia?

The War of the Austrian Succession (1740–1748) fundamentally altered the balance of power in Europe by establishing Prussia as a significant rival to the Habsburg monarchy, initiating a period of Austro-Prussian dualism.123

Key shifts in the balance of power included:

• Loss of Silesia: By successfully wresting the prosperous province of Silesia from Austria and retaining it through the Treaty of Dresden and the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, Prussia demonstrated that it possessed the military capability to challenge the Habsburgs directly.12
• Weakening of Habsburg Prestige: The initial ease with which Frederick II invaded Austrian territory fueled European suspicions that the Habsburg dominions were incapable of defending themselves, undermining their traditional standing.1
• Emergence of Dualism: The conflict marked the beginning of a long-term struggle between the two powers. While Maria Theresa successfully secured her inheritance and the imperial crown for her husband, Francis I, the guarantee of Prussian possession of Silesia left the Habsburgs significantly weakened, setting the stage for future conflicts like the Seven Years’ War.24