Question

Why did Mussolini invade Abyssinia in 1935? Give any three reasons.

Answer 1

The three reasons for Mussolini’s invasion of Abyssinia were:

1. In 1934, there was a conflict at the Wal-Wal oasis between Ethiopian and Italian forces. The 1935 Abyssinian invasion claimed this as one of its justifications.
2. The Italians made an unsuccessful attempt to annex Abyssinia in the late 1890s. They saw an opportunity to get justice for their loss in 1935.
3. The Treaty of Versailles did not result in any significant territorial gains for Italy. They were dissatisfied with the treaty's conditions and wanted to expand their power in Europe. This was an additional cause for the invasion.