Marie Antoinette was born on November 2, 1755 in the beautiful land of Austria. Her childhood was filled with happy days of horseback riding and picnics in the summer; sledding and ice skating in the winter. She had nearly 20 siblings to keep her company. Her father was the Emperor of Austria, granting the family much wealth and power. Sadly, as a young girl, Marie had to watch her father die on his death bed from a fever. Going through this experience enabled Marie to become stronger and independent. Her mother, the Empress, soon decided to arrange a marriage for Marie. The French Dauphin was decided on for he was the future King of France. Marie cried upon hearing the news for the poor Dauphin was overweight, not fair of face, and rather awkward. But, Marie was the Archduchess of Austria