Michele Schirru was a Dominican-born American citizen who became increasingly involved in anti-fascist activities. In 1931, he attempted to assassinate Benito Mussolini, the Prime Minister of Italy and leader of the National Fascist Party. Schirru's motivations were rooted in his strong opposition to fascist policies, which were marked by political repression, censorship, and violence against dissent. His assassination attempt involved an elaborate plan that ultimately failed, leading to his arrest and subsequent trial.

The trial was conducted under the judiciary system influenced by Mussolini's regime, known for its lack of fairness and transparency. Schirru was accused of attempting to kill Mussolini and, after a swift trial, was sentenced to death. The execution was carried out by a firing squad, a common method of execution for perceived enemies of the state during this period. This event captivated public attention, highlighting the oppressive nature of Mussolini's regime and the extreme measures taken against those who opposed it.

Schirru's execution served a dual purpose for the regime: it was a warning to others contemplating dissent and a demonstration of Mussolini's authority. The event underscored the political climate of Italy at the time, where fear and repression were rampant against opposition forces. Schirru's story became emblematic of the struggles faced by anti-fascists and the extreme lengths to which individuals would go to resist totalitarianism, reflecting the larger context of political extremism in 20th century Europe.