The International Response to Italian Aggression (1935–1936)
Italian Aggression in Abyssinia: A Turning Point
- In October 1935, Italy invaded Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), a sovereign nation and member of the League of Nations.
- This act of aggression was a direct challenge to the principles of collective security and exposed the weaknesses of the international system.
The invasion of Abyssinia was part of Mussolini's broader ambition to create a new Roman Empire and distract from domestic economic problems.
The League of Nations' Response
1. Condemnation and Sanctions
- The League condemned Italy as the aggressor and imposed economic sanctions.
- However, these sanctions were limited and ineffective:
- Key resources like oil and coal were excluded.
- Britain and France refused to close the Suez Canal, allowing Italy to transport troops and supplies.
The League's failure to act decisively demonstrated its inability to enforce its own principles, undermining its credibility.
2. The Hoare–Laval Pact
- In December 1935, British Foreign Secretary Samuel Hoare and French Foreign Minister Pierre Laval secretly proposed a plan to partition Abyssinia, giving most of the territory to Italy.
- When the plan was leaked, it sparked public outrage and was abandoned, further damaging the League's reputation.
- Many students mistakenly believe that the League of Nations imposed comprehensive sanctions on Italy.
- In reality, the sanctions were limited and excluded critical resources like oil, which allowed Italy to continue its war effort.
