June 28 in American History

June 28, 1914 — the spark that ignites World War I

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo set off a chain of alliances and declarations that plunged Europe into World War I within weeks. America stayed out for nearly three years — but the war that a single gunshot started would eventually pull the United States onto the world stage for good.

Common Questions About June 28

What happened on June 28 in American history?

In 1914: the spark that ignites World War I. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo set off a chain of alliances and declarations that plunged Europe into World War I within weeks.

Why is June 28 significant?

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo set off a chain of alliances and declarations that plunged Europe into World War I within weeks. America stayed out for nearly three years — but the war that a single gunshot started would eventually pull the United States onto the world stage for good.

The Daily Poll · Weigh In

What makes small events cascade into big ones?

Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.

★ Forge Your Freedom

How Well Do You Know American History?

Your Freedom Score puts a number on it — 60 seconds, free. See how you rank, then get a history moment like this in your brief every day.

Take the Free Assessment
Truman commits U.S. forces to Koreathe Interstate Highway Act