1740

1740 was a leap year in the Gregorian calendar, consisting of 366 days.

In Europe, the year was dominated by the death of Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor, on 20 October. His death triggered the War of the Austrian Succession, as Maria Theresa’s succession was contested by several powers despite the Pragmatic Sanction he had issued. In December 1740, Frederick II of Prussia invaded the Habsburg province of Silesia, an action that opened active military hostilities and expanded the conflict across the continent.

Beyond Central Europe, European colonial powers continued to press their interests in the Atlantic world and Asia as part of ongoing rivalries that would be shaped by the wider war. The events of 1740 helped set the stage for a protracted conflict that would redraw alliances, alter borders, and influence governance and diplomacy for years to come.

Overall, 1740 is remembered for its role in catalyzing the War of the Austrian Succession, a major European war that tested dynastic claims, state power, and the balance of power among rival kingdoms. The year also reflects the broader trends of the early modern period, including centralized statecraft, expanding military commitments, and continued imperial competition on multiple continents.