Miguel Ángel Blanco, a young local councilor from the Partido Popular, was abducted in Ermua, a Basque town, on July 10, 1997, by members of the Basque separatist group ETA. The kidnapping was part of an ongoing campaign by ETA to assert their demands for Basque independence. Blanco's abduction came with a 48-hour deadline for the Spanish government to grant ETA's requests, demanding concessions regarding their imprisoned members. This ultimatum captured the attention of the nation, raising public awareness of the violent tactics employed by the organization.

As news of the kidnapping spread, a wave of protests erupted throughout Spain, demonstrating widespread condemnation of the act. Citizens united in their calls for the release of Miguel Ángel Blanco, showcasing solidarity against ETA's terrorism. Despite the fervent public outcry and efforts to secure his release, ETA ultimately murdered him on July 12, 1997, a decision that shocked and infuriated the nation.

His death not only ignited further protests but also marked a turning point in the Spanish public's stance against ETA. The event solidified a national resolve to combat terrorism, subsequently resulting in increased law enforcement authority and efforts to eradicate ETA's influence. The murder of Blanco became a pivotal moment in Spain's struggle against political violence, leading to a significant decline in support for the separatist group and prompting a broader dialogue on national unity and the fight against terrorism.