Definition
Archduke Franz Ferdinand (1863-1914) was the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne. His assassination in Sarajevo in 1914 is widely considered the spark that ignited World War I. Think of him as the VIP whose death triggered a global crisis 💥. He was a controversial figure, known for his conservative views and his morganatic marriage. His death had profound consequences for Europe and the world. He played a role, albeit an unwilling one, in shaping the 20th century.