The Atocha massacre took place in Madrid, targeting a group of lawyers who were advocates for worker rights. The victims were part of a collective known as the Atocha Lawyers and were known for their dedication to social justice and political reform during a volatile period in Spain. The assassins, linked to far-right fascist groups, stormed their office, specifically aiming to intimidate and eliminate voices that opposed their ideology. The attack resulted in the murder of five individuals: Manuel González, Francisco Javier Sáenz de Ugarte, Angel Rodriguez, Luis Ramos and Juan José Castillo, and left several others wounded. This violent act stands out as a stark example of the violent pushback against the burgeoning democracy in Spain and the lingering influence of Francoist thought in parts of the country.

In the aftermath of the massacre, Spain’s society responded with outrage and protest against the continuing acts of violence by extremist groups. Many gathered in cities across the nation to demand justice for the victims and an end to political violence. The public outcry was significant and mobilized political leaders toward furthering democratic reforms, reinforcing the idea that such acts could not be tolerated in a democratic society. It also further united various political factions against common threats, setting the stage for a more robust civil society and a clearer repudiation of Francoist ideals.