The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in June 1914 had profound consequences for Europe. His death acted as a catalyst for World War I, triggering a complex web of alliances and escalating tensions between major powers. Following the assassination, Austria-Hungary issued an ultimatum to Serbia, leading to declarations of war among other nations due to existing treaties and alliances. The conflict ultimately engulfed much of Europe and resulted in unprecedented destruction, loss of life, and geopolitical changes, including the demise of empires and the creation of new nations. This pivotal event reshaped the international landscape for decades to follow.