Political assassins are individuals who carry out targeted killings of political figures, often to influence government policies or instigate change. These assassinations can be motivated by ideological beliefs, personal grievances, or the desire for power. The act is typically clandestine and may involve various methods, including firearms, explosives, or poison. Throughout history, political assassins have played significant roles in shaping events. Notable examples include the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BCE and the killing of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which sparked World War I. Such acts can lead to widespread political upheaval and social unrest.