In the 16th century, Europe was a turbulent place, where religious conflicts and political struggles were common. Among the many leaders who emerged in this period, one stands out for his courage, his vision, and his tragic fate. His name was William of Orange, also known as William the Silent, the Stadholder of the Netherlands. He was the first head of state to be assassinated by a handgun, an event that changed the course of history and shaped the destiny of a nation.