t many were starting to realize would be quite great in scope. The next significant event, in my opinion, was the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand of Austria by the Serbian nationalist group, Black Hand. The actual assassination is not nearly as important as the message it was intended to send, as well as the far-reaching effects it had. The Archduke had been on a visit to the Serbian portion of Austria-Hungary to issue a message of diplomacy. Understanding that these Serbs would be extremely important in the looming war, the crowned prince wanted to give these people representation in the Austria-Hungary government. While opposed by the Hungarian portion of the government because of the possible weakening it offered them, this plan was favored by the most powerful members of the state, the Austrians. Knowing that Serbs constituted a significant part of their army, and understanding that these people only added to their power as a kingdom over all, they were more than willing to accept the Archduke's plans.The key group that wasn't however, were the Serbians of the neighboring Serbia. Fresh off becoming a regional superpower after the Balkan wars of 1912 and 1913, this group next wanted to annex the Serbian Portion of Austria-Hungary. They had a nationalistic feeling that led them to want to unite their people. Thus, they came to the conclusion that this would be their best route for action. However, it not only did not server their purposes, but many have actually backfired in its original intentions, certainly in its outcome in Europe, but also in regard to Serbians. This action was probably the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back. Austria-Hungary could not stand by and take this direct attack without being defaced in front of other powers. Their only reservation was to make certain that their principle ally, Germany, would support an outcome of retaliation. When support came in the form of the famous "blank ...
