italian expansionism

Question 1

What were Mussolini’s main FP aims in the 1920’s?

Answer 1

Pursuing diplomacy and co-operation w/West.

Question 2

What factors impacted M’s FP in 1920’s?

Answer 2

-Disappointment over Versailles, M wanted to increase national pride and make Italy more significant international political force.
- M’s belief Fascist Italy as 2nd Roman Empire & control of the Med.
- Economic needs of Italy drove goals of controlling Med and expanding Italian empire.

Question 3

What are AJP Taylor & Denis Mack Smith’s views on M’s FP?

Answer 3

• M’s FP was improvised and not ideologically motivated or coherent and propaganda made it seem.
• Italy was weak so M was forced to use ‘blunster and opportunism’.

Question 4

What do other historians argue about M’s FP?

Answer 4

• M was consistent but opportunistic in achieving aims.
• More assertive FP in 30’s was attempt at reinvigorating regime.