The declaration of neutrality, 1914 Flashcards
What was Antonio Salandra to face in August 1914? Why?
In August 1914, Antonio Salandra was to face an even greater challenge, as war broke out in Europe pitting the central powers, Germany and Austria, against the entente of Russia, Britain and France
What had Italy joined in 1882 and with who?
Italy had joined the Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary in 1882
What didn’t Italy have to join when the First World War broke out?
When the First World War broke out in August 1914, however, Italy didn’t have to join Austria as it hadn’t consulted with Italy’s govt before declaring war on Serbia
What did this mean?
This meant Italy’s treaty obligations to Austria did not apply
What did Italy announce?
Italy announced that it would remain neutral
What did this decision (neutrality) cause?
This decision caused considerable splits within Italian politics
What did many within parliament believe?
Many within parliament, including Giolitti, believed that Italy wasn’t economically ready to engage in a major war, particularly so soon after the war in Libya, and Giolitti argued that Italy could gain by negotiating with both sides to stay out
Despite the nationalists, what did the majority of Italians wish?
Despite the anger of the nationalist press who pushed for intervention, it appeared that the majority of Italians had no wish to get involved in the European conflict
Who did the majority of Italians back?
They backed Giolitti and the other non-interventionist politicians
