The Cossacks, known for their fierce independence and military capabilities, entered Hailuoto with the intent of asserting dominance over a region that was witnessing increasing tensions and conflicts. The surprise attack resulted in the deaths of around 800 locals, marking a devastating moment for the community. The environment of strife during this period, known as the Great Wrath, contributed to disorder not only in Hailuoto but across various territories within the Russian Empire. The Cossacks executed swift military maneuvers, utilizing their experience in guerrilla warfare and tactical advantage to overwhelm the unsuspecting residents of Hailuoto. This sudden onslaught sparked fears of more widespread violence in surrounding areas.

The event exemplifies the struggles for power and governance as multiple factions sought control over the Baltic Sea territories. Cossack raiding parties were notorious for their mobility and unpredictability, which often resulted in tragic outcomes for local populations. The brutality witnessed in Hailuoto represents just one of the numerous skirmishes and violent interactions during this period, a culmination of rising tensions linked to broader political and military objectives of the Cossack regiments and their affiliations with various powers of the time. Additionally, the raid had long-lasting consequences for the local population, who faced not only loss but also profound social changes in the aftermath.

The attack was not an isolated incident but part of a greater pattern of conflict fueled by the ambitions of Cossack leaders and their complex relationships with the Russian Empire, as well as neighboring states. This tumultuous period saw several such confrontations, leading to a reevaluation of strategies among the Cossacks and their adversaries, ultimately contributing to the shifting dynamics of power in Eastern Europe.