Treaty of Vienna (1738)

Quick Facts: Who was Treaty of Vienna (1738)?

Subject:

Treaty of Vienna (1738)

Known for:

The 1738 peace treaty ending the War of the Polish Succession, reshaping European claims.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

The Treaty of Vienna, signed on November 18, 1738, served as the definitive conclusion to the protracted conflict known as the War of the Polish Succession. This major European peace agreement fundamentally altered the political landscape of several key regions. Its primary function was to settle the complex succession disputes that had plagued the Polish throne for years. The treaty's provisions reflected the shifting balance of power among the great monarchies of the era.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

A pivotal element of the treaty involved Stanisław Leszczyński, who formally renounced his claim to the Polish throne. In exchange for this renunciation, he was compensated with the valuable duchies of Lorraine and Bar, which were designated to pass to his daughter. Furthermore, Austria was involved in significant territorial exchanges, notably ceding Naples and Sicily to Duke Charles of Parma and Piacenza. These provisions demonstrate the intricate web of diplomatic negotiations required to achieve peace.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The treaty's impact extended beyond immediate dynastic settlements, touching upon the recognition of the Pragmatic Sanction by France. It also saw the transfer of the vacant throne of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany to Francis Stephen, who was indemnified by the agreement. Moreover, the treaty was historically notable as one of the final major international documents written entirely in the Latin language. This underscores its deep connection to the established diplomatic customs of the time.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1738: 1738 Milestone — The Treaty of Vienna, signed on November 18, 1738, served as the definitive conclusion to the protracted conflict known as the War of the Polish Succession.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Treaty of Vienna (1738)

True or False: “The Treaty of Vienna was the first major international treaty to be written entirely in Latin.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The Treaty of Vienna was one of the last international treaties written in Latin, but it was not the first. The Treaty of Belgrade, signed the following year, was also written in Latin.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Arthur Phillip — Historical peer (Born in 1738) (1738): Royal Navy officer and first Governor of New South Wales.
• Cesare Beccaria — Historical peer (Born in 1738) (1738): Pioneering jurist whose work reformed criminal justice and condemned torture.
• Treaty of Vienna (1864) — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Peace treaty ending the Second War of Schleswig, involving Austria, Prussia, and Denmark.
• Treaty of Vincennes-Edinburgh — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: 1371 Treaty renewing the Auld Alliance between Scotland and France.
• Treaty of Viterbo — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: A pair of treaties (1267) transferring rights from the Latin Empire to Sicily.
• Treaty of Värälä — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: 1790 peace treaty ending the Russo-Swedish War, confirming borders and revoking Russian interference rights.

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