On March 14, 1921, six members of the Irish Republican Army, a group known as the Forgotten Ten, were executed by hanging in Mountjoy Prison, Dublin. Their execution was part of a wider campaign by the British government to curb the escalating violence during the Irish War of Independence. These activists were involved in a series of assaults aimed at British authorities and sought to establish an independent Ireland free from British rule. As tensions mounted between Irish republicans and British forces during the years leading up to this event, the Forgotten Ten were arrested and put on trial for their actions. Despite public outcry and calls for clemency, the British authorities proceeded with the hangings as a demonstration of their resolve against the rebels.

The executions drew significant attention and outrage among Irish nationalists. The men hanged included notable figures who had garnered support from various segments of the Irish population, particularly among those advocating for independence. Their deaths were seen as martyrdom, fueling further resistance against British occupation. Activist groups and republicans used the event to rally support for the nationalist cause, framing their struggle as one against oppression and injustice. In the aftermath, public sentiment against British rule intensified, leading to increased enlistment in the Irish Republican Army and broader support for the independence movement.

The legacy of the Forgotten Ten lives on in Irish memory, symbolizing the dedication and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom. Memorials and commemorative events have been held to honor their memory, ensuring that their roles in the fight for Irish independence remain recognized. This event became a rallying cry for continued struggle against British domination, marking a pivotal moment in the trajectory of the Irish War of Independence.