WW2 economy and military weaknesses

Question 1

What were some of Mussolini’s Military weaknesses?

Answer 1

• Italy had 75 divisions but only enough equipment for 35.
• Many rifles and cannons dated back from WW1
• Employed 19th century war strategies

Question 2

What were some of Mussolini’s Economic weaknesses?

Answer 2

• The USA could create more aircraft in a week then Italy could in a year
• It imported 1.5 million tonnes of oil from Romania
• Steel production fell in the war to 1.7 million tonnes

Question 3

What were some of Mussolini’s leadership weaknesses?

Answer 3

• Mussolini held the positions of all the ministers relevant to war
• He took all major decisions without consulting military experts
• in May 1940 Mussolini organised what should be included in the Roman Opera that night instead of focusing on the war.
• He preferred to meet with his Mistress then make discussion