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How did the First Treaty of Versailles create an alliance between France and Austria?

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Seven Years' War: Battle of Zorndorf — Seven Years’ War Frederick II leading his Prussian troops against Russians at the Battle of Zorndorf during the Seven Years' War, August 25, 1758.

The First Treaty of Versailles, signed on May 1, 1756, established a defensive alliance between France and Austria, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic revolution of the 18th century.1

This alliance was driven by shifting geopolitical interests following the War of the Austrian Succession. Austria, under the guidance of Wenzel Anton von Kaunitz, concluded that its traditional alliance with Great Britain was no longer beneficial, particularly after Britain signed the Convention of Westminster with Prussia. Fearing isolation and the defection of Prussia, France sought to strengthen its position by aligning with its former rival, Austria.1

Under the terms of the treaty, both France and Austria pledged to provide 24,000 troops to support the other in the event of an attack, though the agreement notably exempted Austria from any obligation to join a war against Great Britain. This rapprochement, facilitated by figures such as François-Joachim de Pierre de Bernis and the marquise de Pompadour, fundamentally realigned European powers on the eve of the Seven Years’ War.12