The Abyssinian Crisis Flashcards
Which colonies belonging to Mussolini bordered Abyssinia so would make invasion easier?
Eritrea and Somaliland
Why could Abyssinia be good for the Italian economy?
It was rich in natural resources and had good land for grazing animals.
Why did Mussolini not think Britain and France could object to him invading Abyssinia?
As they had so many colonies in the region themselves.
Why did Mussolini want revenge on Abyssinia?
In 1896 Italy had tried, and failed, to invade Abyssinia. Italy expected an easy victory but faced a humiliating defeat. Mussolini wanted to restore national pride.
What previous dealing with the League made Mussolini sure he could invade Abyssinia without the League taking action?
The Corfu Crisis in 1923, when it had failed to stop him bullying Greece.
What recent event involving the League also made Mussolini confident?
The League’s failure in Manchuria.
What agreement was signed in 1935 regarding Britain, France and Hitler?
The Stresa Front, Britain and France agreed they would unite against Hitler.
What impression did France give to Mussolini regarding the Stresa Front?
That France would not anything to keep Italy as an ally against Hitler.
When did Italians first clash with Abyssinians at Wal Wal?
How many were killed?
December 1934
150 Abyssinians and 2 Italians were killed.
When did Italy invade Abyssinia?
3 October 1935
What was the only resistance the Italian army met?
The small Abyssinian army, some soldiers armed with nothing more than spears.
Who was Haile Selassie?
The Abyssinian emperor.
What had Haile Selassie done?
He had addressed the League in Geneva, warning it of the effect its failure to deal with Mussolini would have.
When did Italian troops take over the Abyssinian capital?
What was the capital called?
On 5 May 1936, Italian troops took over the Abyssinian capital, Addis Ababa.
What were the 4 factors for why the League failed in Abyssinia?
-Failure to close the Suez Canal
-The Hoare-Laval pact
-Trade sanctions against Italy
-Trade sanctions against Abyssinia