Austria was originally a Catholic country. The Austrian monarch Maria Theresa (1740-1780) implemented an "enlightened autocracy" and carried out reforms to revitalize the country and consolidate the rule of his family. In 1749, a decree was issued allowing foreigners to move freely to Austria, granting tax exemptions and religious freedom, and establishing municipal regulations that favored the development of foreign factory owners. The state established scholarships to reward new inventions and start-ups. At the same time, the state sent technicians abroad for further study at official fees, and prohibited the exodus of skilled workers.