A group of Puerto Rican nationalists stormed the United States Capitol, armed and intent on making a statement regarding Puerto Rican independence. The group, composed of four individuals led by Lolita Lebrón, entered the Capitol during a session of the House of Representatives on March 1, 1954. As the session proceeded, the nationalists produced firearms and opened fire, injuring five representatives, including future Speaker of the House, Joseph W. Martin Jr. The attackers sought to draw international attention to Puerto Rico's colonial status and the movement for independence from U.S. rule.

Lolita Lebrón and her group believed that their violent act would highlight the plight of Puerto Rico, which had been a U.S. territory since the Spanish-American War in 1898. The attack, while shocking, was rooted in a long history of struggle for Puerto Rican autonomy. The gunmen were quickly apprehended by Capitol Police, resulting in their sentencing to 25 to 75 years in prison. The assault sparked debates in Congress regarding the political status of Puerto Rico, eventually leading to legislative measures focused on its governance and the rights of its people.

In the aftermath, there were widespread discussions on the implications of the incident for U.S.-Puerto Rican relations. Activists and political leaders from Puerto Rico seized upon the moment, urging reforms and advocating for the island’s self-determination. Public sentiment, however, was polarized, as some viewed the nationalists' actions as a valid expression of frustration, while others condemned the violence as detrimental to the cause of independence. This incident continues to resonate in discussions about Puerto Rico's political future and its relationship with the United States.