Italy's Journey to WWI: Ambitions, Hesitations, and Decisions

Patreon Support: A New Era of History Learning📜

This video today is brought to you by my generous supporters on Patreon, a paid subscription service for the armchair historian which grants members exclusive access to a variety of bonuses such as:

An exclusive monthly newsletter

A special Discord rank

The ability to nominate and suggest topics

Participation in Q&As

Placement in the credits of all animated videos

A personal drawing

If you want to help us reach our next goal, check out the link in the description below. Thanks, and now let's delve into the historical journey of Italy during the onset of World War I. ---

The Unification and Initial Challenges of Italy 🇮🇹

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.

The Early Leadership and Economic Aspirations

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

Protection from France

Neutrality in the Russo-Austrian war

Mutual protection in the Franco-German war

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. ---

Military Setbacks and Colonial Ventures 🌍

The Italo-Ethiopian War

Underestimated African capabilities

Overestimated Italian prowess

Resulted in a humiliating defeat

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.

Preparations and Diplomatic Maneuverings

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

Unpreparedness

Fielded up to 100,000 troops

Faced a smaller force of Arabs and Turks

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. ---

Foreign Relations and Strategic Missteps 🌐

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.

Entering World War I

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

Trentino

Austrian Littoral

Trieste and South Tyrol not offered

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. ---

The Aftermath and Consequences of World War I 🕊️

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.

The Cost of War

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. --- 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.

For a better experience visit our official blog site

Leave a comment

Leave a comment

Name*

Email*

Comment*

Send

• Share on:
• WhatsApp
• Deel
• Tweet
• Pin it
• Messenger
• Email

---