The Origins and the Causes of the First World War - What were the main short-term causes? - Development of the German-Italian Alliance

6 important questions on The Origins and the Causes of the First World War - What were the main short-term causes? - Development of the German-Italian Alliance

Where did the German-Italian alliance have its origins in?

1936: The 'October Protocols' signed by Count Ciano in Berlin

What were the 'October Protocols'?

1936: Signed by Italy and Germany:
  1. Little more than anti-Bolshevik phrases
  2. However, did give relationship their name as Mussolini famously said, 'The Berlin-Rome line' was now 'an axis around which can revolve all those European states with a  will to collaboration and peace.'

When did Germany and Italy's relationship become serious?

November 1937: Italy signed the 'Anti-Comintern Pact'
Originally signed in November 1936 by Germany and Japan.
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What event showed Italy's subjugation to Germany?

March 1938: Italy's acceptance of the"Anschluss' between Germany and Austria

What treaty between Italy and Germany meant that Mussolini lost complete control of his own policy; and instead 'handed the reigns' to Hitler?

May 1939: "Pact of Steel"
  • After two months of pressure for a full military alliance; Mussolini allowed Ciano to conclude alliance
  • Military commitment if either side was 'involved in warlike circumstances'
  • Alliance made no pretence to be defensive

What quote introduces the idea that the "Pact of Steel" was a key cause in Hitler's invasion of Poland?

By underwriting all future German schemes through the "Pact of Steel" "Mussolini gave Hitler carte blanche [complete freedom of action] toattack Poland and to plunge into the Second World War" - Elizabeth Wiskenmann

However, equally would Hitler have not attacked if it wasn't for Mussolini? Was Mussolini the decisive factor or just a nice addition. What about when Hitler didn't have Mussolini's support like when he invaded the Rhineland?

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