September 21, 2024 | by Unboxify
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In 1871, the emergent Kingdom of Italy was finally unified. Naturally, Italy’s projected prestige and influence compared to the great powers of Europe were marginal at best. However, this did not stop the newly formed kingdom from taking a series of economic and military actions to earn its place among them.
Following the costly wars of Italian unification, Italy was led by Victor Emmanuel III and the liberal Giovanni Giolitti, who intermittently served as prime minister from 1892 to 1921. Giolitti’s tenure gave rise to an era of economic growth and industrial expansion from 1900 to 1914.
Despite its insignificance to many European countries, Italy was not outcasted during the dawn of the 20th century. It had become part of the Triple Alliance in 1882 with the two other signatories being the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the German Empire.
The Triple Alliance
Italy turned its attention towards Africa, establishing colonies in Somalia and Eritrea, with aspirations to link these territories, leading to the Italo-Ethiopian War in 1895. The war ended in a humiliating defeat for Italy, but this did not deter their colonial ambitions.
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The Italo-Ethiopian War
After the Ethiopian debacle, Italy set its eyes on Libya, a more promising colonial venture. The Italian government had a long-standing claim on Libyan territories since as early as 1877. Thus, Italy’s press began to push for war against Libya by spring 1911, depicting it as a land of vast resources and a mere Ottoman force of some 4,000 troops.
Giovanni Giolitti entered diplomatic proceedings regarding the Libyan situation with other European powers, garnering tacit approval for military action. However, Ottoman emissaries replied with a proposal to hand over practical control of Libya while maintaining its nominal status under the empire. Giolitti refused the offer and declared war on September 29, 1911.
Italy’s Initial Challenges
Initially facing setbacks, the war turned into a year-long stalemate, with trench warfare becoming common. It also marked the first use of airships for bombing, a notable innovation at the time. Despite certain Italian ingenuity, the conflict proved costly, ending with the Treaty of Ouchy on October 18, 1912. Italy acquired Libya, but at a substantial economic and human cost.
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During the years leading to World War I, Italy maintained cordial relations with Britain and France, even signing a secret pact in 1902 with France. This shift stemmed from Italy’s long-standing feud with the Austro-Hungarian Empire over the Adriatic islands and other mainland territories. Consequently, Italy had to look elsewhere for allies to support its territorial claims.
By 1914, Italy was recuperating militarily and economically. When war broke out, Prime Minister Salandra declared Italy’s neutrality, arguing that the Triple Alliance was meant for defensive purposes, and Austria was the aggressor.
Triple Alliance Promises
Due to this impasse, the Foreign Minister Sidney Sonnino initiated a deal with the Entente, who promised Italy the desired territories in exchange for support. This agreement was the Treaty of London, signed on April 26, 1915, effectively nullifying the Triple Alliance. Italy withdrew from the Alliance on May 3, 1915, and a few days later, Prime Minister Salandra formally declared war on Austria-Hungary on May 23, 1915, thus entering World War I.
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Italy’s entry into World War I was the culmination of strategic decisions and external pressures. The Treaty of Versailles in 1919 granted Italy control over territories such as Trentino, Trieste, Tyrol, and Istria, stabilizing the country’s territorial demands.
However, the war took a profound toll on Italy, exacerbating economic strains and loss of human lives. These hardships paved the way for the rise of extremist and nationalist elements in the country, setting the stage for future upheavals.
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Italy’s journey during the early 20th century and its role in World War I depict a nation striving for greater influence and stability amidst complex geopolitical landscapes. By meticulously calculating its options and forging strategic alliances, Italy managed to navigate its precarious position, leaving an enduring mark on European history.
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