Declaration of neutrality

Question 1

When did the First World War break out?

Answer 1

July 1914

Question 2

Who was Prime minister at the time of the First World War?

Answer 2

Antonio Salandra (1914 - 1916.)

Question 3

What were the sides in WWI?

Answer 3

Germany and Austria versus France England and Russia

Question 4

Where did Italy stand in relation to the sides in WWI?

Answer 4

Italy had formed signed the Triple Alliance with Austria and German in 1882, but when war broke out, Italy did not have to go to war because Austria had not consulted with Italy before going to war with Serbia, therefore meaning that the Treaty terms did not apply. As a result Italy opted to stay neutral.

Question 5

What was the impact in Italy of their neutrality in WWI?

Answer 5

The decision caused splits in Italian politics as many such as Giolitti thought that they weren’t economically ready to be in another war so soon after war with Libya (Sep 1911-Oct 1912). The nationalists pressed for intervention but in the main it seemed as if most Italians were happy to remain neutral.