Background to the Abyssinian Crisis (1935-1936) Flashcards
Why was Abyssinia unusual in 1930s Africa?
It was the last remaining independent state (the rest were colonies)
Who ruled Abyssinia?
Emperor Haile Selassie (Hail - e Sel-ass-ie)
How much economic value did Abyssinia have?
Limited - it had some mineral wealth but most of it was rocky wasteland
Where was Abyssinia located?
East Africa - between Italy’s other African territories Eritrea and Somaliland
Name two of Italy’s African territories
Eritrea
Somaliland
What happened in 1896?
The Italians had been defeated trying to colonise Abyssinia
Where was the key battle in 1896 fought?
Adowa (northern Abyssinia)
Why did the Italian defeat at Adowa matter?
- It was deeply humiliating for the Italians
- It meant they wanted revenge
Why was Mussolini interested in Abyssinia during the 1930s?
It was a distraction from the economic problems in Italy that could also help boost his popularity
Who was Mussolini?
The leader of Italy (a fascist dictator)
Why was Abyssinia a particularly attractive prospect for Mussolini?
It seemed low-risk: the Abyssinian army was equipped with outdated rifles, supplemented with spears and arrows
What did Mussolini often talk about?
Restoring the glory of the Roman Empire
