The Awful End of Prince William the Silent: The First Assassination of a Head of State with a Handgun by Lisa Jardine is a historical exploration of the first assassination of a head of state with a handgun. The book focuses on the life and death of William the Silent, Prince of Orange, a key figure in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule.

Jardine delves into the political and religious conflicts of the 16th century, highlighting William’s role as a champion of Protestant ideals and Dutch independence. She details the numerous assassination attempts on William’s life, culminating in the successful attack by Balthasar Gerard in 1584.

The book examines the impact of William’s assassination on European politics, the development of firearms, and the increasing use of assassination as a political weapon. Jardine also explores the personal and psychological motivations of the assassin, Gerard, and the broader context of religious fanaticism and political extremism that fueled the act.

Print: First Edition

Condition: Very Good

ISBN: 987-0-06-083835-5