The Ruby Ridge standoff, which lasted for 11 days, was a significant confrontation between Randy Weaver, a white separatist, and U.S. federal authorities, including the FBI and U.S. Marshals. It began when federal agents attempted to arrest Weaver for failing to appear in court over illegal firearms charges for which he had been indicted. In the exchange of gunfire that ensued, a U.S. Marshal was killed, and one of Weaver’s sons also lost his life, escalating an already tense situation. The confrontation took place at Weaver's remote cabin in Idaho, attracting media coverage and public interest, as it highlighted the growing tension between government authorities and those who view such interventions as an infringement on individual rights.

Negotiations between negotiation teams and Weaver were complicated due to the presence of his family members, which included his wife and children. Despite initial circumstances that seemed insurmountable, a breakthrough occurred, leading to a peaceful resolution on the final day of the standoff. Weaver, along with his surviving family members, ultimately surrendered and was taken into custody, though not without significant media exposure and public debate regarding the conduct and tactics of federal law enforcement officers during the siege.