Conservatism: Franz Ferdinand was known for his conservative and traditionalist views, opposing liberal reforms and advocating for the preservation of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy's autocratic structure. This stance sometimes clashed with growing desires for political liberalization and democracy.
Slavic Policies: Some Slavic minority groups within the Austro-Hungarian Empire considered Franz Ferdinand as anti-Slavic. He reportedly supported German supremacy within the empire and viewed some Slavic movements as detrimental to the state's unity.
Personal Character: Some viewed Franz Ferdinand's personality as authoritarian and prone to arrogance. Additionally, his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg, was not from a royal lineage, and their morganatic marriage caused disapproval among certain aristocratic circles.
Succession Concerns: As the nephew of Emperor Franz Joseph and heir presumptive to the throne, Franz Ferdinand was seen by some as a potential destabilizing factor. His accession could raise fears of further conservatism and conflict with nationalist groups striving for autonomy or secession from the empire.
Political Rivalries: Within the complex political landscape of the Habsburg monarchy, some factions and political opponents might have held personal rivalries or differences with Franz Ferdinand, shaping negative perceptions of him.
Overall, these perceptions and concerns contributed to negative sentiment towards Archduke Franz Ferdinand among specific groups, though it's important to note that public opinion about him varied, and some segments of society still held loyalties and positive views of the Habsburg dynasty.