Why did Austria seek to regain Silesia from Prussia?
Austria sought to regain Silesia from Prussia primarily because it was the most prosperous province of the Habsburg monarchy, valued for its populousness, advanced economy, and significant mineral resources, including coal, iron-ore, lead, and zinc.12
Following the loss of the territory to Frederick II during the War of the Austrian Succession, the Austrian empress Maria Theresa remained tenaciously committed to recovering the province. Her determination was fueled by a desire to restore the integrity of her realm and check the rising power of Prussia, which had emerged as a major rival in German affairs. During the Seven Yearsâ War, Austria pursued this goal through a "diplomatic revolution," allying with France and Russia in an attempt to defeat Frederick and secure the retrocession of the region. Despite these efforts, the conflict concluded with the Treaty of Hubertusburg in 1763, which confirmed Prussia's continued possession of Silesia.3415