Franz Ferdinand

born:

died: June 28, 1914

Central Powers

Involvement in the War:

Archduke Franz Ferdinand believed in reforming the government of Austria-Hungary, particularly in ensuring an equal voice for all nations within the Austro-Hungarian borders. He wanted to implement a triple monarchy to give the Slavs a part in the affairs of state, but Serbian nationalists opposed this move, and subsequently, a group of these nationalists had the Archduke assassinated. Gavrilo Princip, a Serbian student and nationalist pulled the trigger that ignited the fuse for the Great War.

Quotes:

"What is the good of your speeches? I come to Sarajevo on a visit, and I get bombs thrown at me. It is outrageous!"

-The Archduke interrupting the Mayor's speech at City Hall in Sarajevo

"Sophie dear, Sophie dear, don't die! Stay alive for our children."

- The Archduke's last words