Political assassination refers to the deliberate killing of a prominent individual, often a political leader or activist, with the intent to influence political outcomes or instill fear. These acts can be motivated by ideological, political, or personal reasons and are often carried out by state actors, extremist groups, or individuals seeking to disrupt the status quo. Throughout history, political assassinations have had significant impacts on nations and movements. Notable examples include the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963 and Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, both of which led to profound political changes and conflicts, including the onset of World War I.