An Archduke is a noble title that ranks just below a king or queen, primarily associated with the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The title was often given to the sons and daughters of the emperor, making them part of the royal family. Archdukes held significant political and social influence during their time. The most famous Archduke is Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination in 1914 sparked the beginning of World War I. Archdukes played important roles in European history, representing both power and the complexities of royal lineage in a time of shifting political landscapes.