Lesson 1 - Italy Flashcards
When did Italy emerge as a unified state?
In 1859 - and only fully in 1870 with the take over of Rome
Where did Italy look towards to get power?
North Africa, particularly Tunisia where there were lots of Italians. However France was a rival here and was who ultimately prevailed.
The Western Balkans - especially Albania
Why was Italy keen to get Albania from the Ottomans?
Since most territories claimed by Italy in Adriatic
region (Istria, Dalmatia) were controlled by Habsburgs and Italy was too weak to stage war against Vienna, she concentrated on Ottoman (and after 1912, independent) Albania as it would give her control of Strait of Otranto and, consequently access to Adriatic Sea.
Who did Italy become a rival of?
Britain and France in north Africa, over Egypt and Tunisia respectively
Serbia, Montenegro, and Greece in Balkans. In that part of Europe, she also faced Austria-Hungary,
[States with expansionist ambitions in these regions]
How was Italy opportunistic?
she preyed on Ottoman Empire when it was at its weakest. In 1911-12, Romeseized opportunity offered by political turmoil in Constantinople to invade Tripolitania
(hoping to carve colonial empire for herself). Then, during course of war, Italy occupied Dodecanese islands (as suggested by Germany).
