Eduardo Dato Iradier served as the Prime Minister of Spain and was known for his conservative policies. On the fateful day, he was making his way home from Parliament when he was attacked by a group of anarchist extremists. The assailants ambushed him, firing multiple shots, which ultimately led to his death shortly after reaching the hospital. Dato, who previously experienced threats from radical factions, had been a target because of his government's stance on labor issues and political repression. The methodical nature of the attack indicated a well-planned assassination, typical of the violent political atmosphere of Spain in the early 20th century.

The political landscape of Spain was marked by instability, with various factions vying for power amidst a backdrop of economic hardship and social unrest. Anarchists, along with other revolutionary groups, were increasingly turning to violence as they aimed to topple the existing government. Dato’s assassination did not merely represent the loss of a political leader but illustrated a profound crisis in Spanish politics, leading to further crackdowns on dissent and violence from state forces against leftist movements.

In the wake of Dato's death, the Spanish government faced intense scrutiny and demanded tighter security measures for politicians. This incident also signaled a turning point in public sentiment toward the ruling class, raising questions about efficacy in governance and the ability to protect state officials. The atmosphere of fear and retaliation deepened, setting the stage for future political upheaval in Spain.