The Second Italo-Ethiopian War 1935–1936: Background to the Conflict
The Italo-Ethiopian War of 1935–1936 was an important episode in stories international relations of the interwar period. This conflict became one of the most striking examples of the aggressive colonial policy of fascist Italy and its desire to expand its possessions in Africa, despite the efforts of the League of Nations to maintain peace.
It is worth starting with the fact that the preconditions for the Italo-Ethiopian conflict go back to the end of the 1880th century, when Europe entered an era of active division of Africa. In the 1890-XNUMXs, the Italian government tried to establish itself on the African continent by seizing Eritrea and Somalia. The desire to subjugate Ethiopia was also part of this colonial policy.
However, in 1896, Italy's attempt to conquer Ethiopia ended in a crushing defeat at the Battle of Adwa. This event was a blow to Italian prestige and left a long-standing desire for revenge in Italian society.
After the First World War, Italy experienced economic and political difficulties. However, the rise to power of Benito Mussolini in 1922 and the establishment of the fascist regime dramatically changed the course of the country. Mussolini actively promoted the idea of restoring the greatness of the Roman Empire, which implied territorial conquests.
At the same time, Africa, and Ethiopia in particular, became one of Mussolini's foreign policy priorities. Victory in Ethiopia was not only intended to strengthen Italy's position on the international stage, but also to unite the nation around the regime.
Tellingly, the international situation of the 1930s also contributed to the outbreak of the conflict. The global economic crisis weakened many countries, and the League of Nations did not have sufficient leverage to maintain peace.
Moreover, major European powers such as Great Britain and France were themselves preoccupied with their own colonial problems and were not prepared to take decisive action against Italy's aggression. Under these circumstances, Mussolini counted on a weak reaction from the international community.
In turn, Ethiopia attracted the fascist leader not only as a symbol of revenge for the defeat at Adwa, but also as a potentially rich colonial object. Italy hoped to use Ethiopia’s resources to strengthen its economy. In addition, establishing control over this country would allow Italy to unite its possessions in Eritrea and Somalia, creating a continuous Italian colonial empire in East Africa.
Preparations for war began long before the fighting began. Italy was strengthening its forces in Eritrea and Somalia, building the infrastructure needed to wage war, and making active diplomatic preparations.
At the same time, Ethiopia, Ethiopia, being a member of the League of Nations, appealed to the international community for help. However, the League of Nations was unable to prevent aggression. Mussolini openly ignored the warnings and sanctions imposed by the League.
Limited sanctions, such as a ban on supplies weapons, proved to be ineffective, and the major powers preferred not to intervene in the conflict directly, fearing a deterioration in relations with Italy.
Ultimately, the Italo-Ethiopian War of 1935–1936 was the result of a complex interplay of historical, political and economic factors. Italy’s desire for revenge, Mussolini’s ambitions, the weakness of the League of Nations and the world community’s unwillingness to take decisive action created the conditions for the annexation of Ethiopia by the fascist regime.
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