Background to the Abyssinian Crisis (1935-1936) Flashcards

1
Q

Why was Abyssinia unusual in 1930s Africa?

A

It was the last remaining independent state (the rest were colonies)

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2
Q

Who ruled Abyssinia?

A

Emperor Haile Selassie (Hail - e Sel-ass-ie)

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3
Q

How much economic value did Abyssinia have?

A

Limited - it had some mineral wealth but most of it was rocky wasteland

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4
Q

Where was Abyssinia located?

A

East Africa - between Italy’s other African territories Eritrea and Somaliland

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5
Q

Name two of Italy’s African territories

A

Eritrea
Somaliland

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6
Q

What happened in 1896?

A

The Italians had been defeated trying to colonise Abyssinia

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7
Q

Where was the key battle in 1896 fought?

A

Adowa (northern Abyssinia)

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8
Q

Why did the Italian defeat at Adowa matter?

A
  1. It was deeply humiliating for the Italians
  2. It meant they wanted revenge
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9
Q

Why was Mussolini interested in Abyssinia during the 1930s?

A

It was a distraction from the economic problems in Italy that could also help boost his popularity

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10
Q

Who was Mussolini?

A

The leader of Italy (a fascist dictator)

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11
Q

Why was Abyssinia a particularly attractive prospect for Mussolini?

A

It seemed low-risk: the Abyssinian army was equipped with outdated rifles, supplemented with spears and arrows

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12
Q

What did Mussolini often talk about?

A

Restoring the glory of the Roman Empire

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