The assassination of Kevin O'Higgins, a key political figure in the early years of the Irish Free State, occurred in Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon. As Vice-President of the Executive Council, he was instrumental in shaping the newly formed government and navigating its challenges. O'Higgins was deeply involved in the politics surrounding the Irish Civil War and the establishment of a sovereign state following centuries of British rule.

O'Higgins’ assassination was carried out by members of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), who were opposed to his government's policies and actions regarding the republican conflict. The IRA viewed him as a target due to his association with measures that led to the imprisonment and execution of republicans during the Civil War. This act of violence was a continuation of the intense conflict between disparate nationalist factions in Ireland, which contributed to a climate of fear and retaliation.

In the aftermath, O'Higgins' death had significant political ramifications, as it exacerbated tensions between the government and republican groups. The assassination was met with widespread outrage and condemnation across various sectors of society. It also led to increased governmental security measures and intensified the campaign against the IRA. O'Higgins is remembered both for his contributions to the Free State and as a symbol of the violent conflict that plagued Ireland during this period.