In the summer of 1898, Crete was a focal point of ethnic tensions as Greek and Turkish nationalists vied for control amidst the waning influence of the Ottoman Empire. On that fateful day, a mob composed of Turks launched a brutal attack against a gathering of Greek civilians, resulting in the death of approximately 700 individuals. The violence was exacerbated by the presence of British forces, who were stationed on the island as part of a peacekeeping mission following years of unrest. During this upheaval, 17 British guards were killed, and the British Consul of Crete, Sir George E. S. W. H. D'Arcy Keane, lost his life while attempting to negotiate peace. The chaos was fueled by a combination of nationalistic fervor and a backlash against foreign influence in the region. The mob's actions were not only aimed at Greek civilians but also targeted the perceived symbols of colonial authority and interference.