Entry into the Second World War Notes

Italy's Entry into the Second World War

Why Did Italy Remain a Non-Belligerent in 1939?

1. Unpreparedness for War:
   1. During negotiations for the Pact of Steel, Mussolini informed Hitler that Italy would not be ready for a general war until 1943.
   2. Italy had been engaged in conflicts in Africa and Europe, leaving the nation war-weary and economically strained.

1. Economic and Military Limitations:
   1. Italy's economy was heavily dependent on German coal, which constituted two-thirds of its supply.
   2. In March 1940, Britain blockaded German coal ports, exacerbating Italy's economic vulnerabilities.
2. Mussolini's Strategic Calculations:
   1. Despite his Fascist ideology, Mussolini recognized the risks of entering the war prematurely.
   2. He feared that if Germany won the war without Italy's involvement, Italy would be marginalized in a German-dominated Europe.

Why Did Italy Join the War in June 1940?

1. Ideological and Personal Motivations:
   1. Mussolini's Fascist doctrine emphasized militarism and national glory.
   2. Remaining neutral contradicted his image as a decisive leader.
   3. He famously declared, "To make a people great, [the country] must be sent into battle".
2. Fear of Marginalization:
   1. Mussolini worried that a neutral Italy would become a lesser power, akin to "another Switzerland."
   2. He feared that a German victory would leave Italy isolated and vulnerable.
3. Economic Pressures:
   1. Germany was a major buyer of Italian goods and owed Italy $40 million by August 1939.
   2. The British blockade of German coal ports threatened Italy's energy supply, creating economic incentives to align with Germany.
4. Opportunism and Expansionist Ambitions:
   1. Mussolini saw the war as an opportunity to expand Italy's empire, particularly in the Mediterranean and the Balkans.
   2. He hoped to radicalize the Fascist regime and eliminate conservative influences.

Mussolini's Actions in the War up to 1941

1. Limited Initial Engagement:
   1. Following Italy's declaration of war, there were minor skirmishes with France before an armistice on June 25, 1940.
2. Expansion into the Mediterranean and North Africa:
   1. Italian forces invaded Egypt from Libya and Greece from Albania.
   2. Both offensives failed, requiring German intervention in the Balkans and North Africa.
3. Dependency on Germany:
   1. Mussolini's failures in Greece and North Africa highlighted Italy's military weaknesses and increased its reliance on German support.

Historiographical Perspectives on Mussolini's Foreign Policy

1. Left-Wing Historians:
   1. Emphasize Mussolini's aggressive and expansionist aims, viewing his policies as overtly imperialistic.
2. Right-Wing Historians:
   1. Historians like Renzo De Felice argue that Mussolini's foreign policy was more pragmatic and reactive.
   2. They suggest he sought to balance alliances with Britain, France, and Germany to achieve Italy's goals.