Franz Joseph I

Profession: Austro-Hungarian Emperor

Nationality:

Biography: Franz Joseph is best known as the Austro-Hungarian emperor who led them into World War One, the start of which is often attributed to the assassination of his nephew and heir-presumptive, the Archduke Franz Ferdinand.

Following Franz Ferdinand’s death, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. This triggered a cascade of alliances which resulted in the broad conflict between European powers known as World War One.

During his reign as emperor, Franz Joseph spent much of his time resisting constitutional control and forestalling nationalist ambitions within the empire.

He oversaw 45 years of peace, though suffered many personal tragedies, from the suicide of his son, Crown Prince Rudolf, to the assassination of his wife, Empress Elisabeth.

Born: August 18, 1830
Birthplace: Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austrian Empire
Star Sign: Leo

Died: November 21, 1916 (aged 86)
Cause of Death: Pneumonia of the right lung after he caught a cold while walking in Schönbrunn Park with the King of Bavaria