More ambitious/aggressive policies 1934-39

Austria 1934.

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Britain, France and Italy protest over German rearmament: went against the Treaty of Versailles.
Resisted activites against peace.
Mussolini took role of major European statesman.

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Higer profits and new products: but cost 2 years normal spending and started spiralling state debt.
Only 3,500 families moved there: failed to provide trade/settlement opportunity.
League of nations: Italian people supported the war and donated gold rings - however, war divided public opinion and promoted racism.
Neither British nor French opposed too vigorously, but it deteriorated relations between Italy and UK/France.
Only 1500 men lost out of 400,000 men: but early use of Fascist Militia ineffective.

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Italy supplied 100s of artillery tanks, transport, and 100,000 'volunteers'
Wanted to have a greater influence in the Mediterranean, to cultivate an ally, to prevent left-wing influences in Spain, and to gain an ally.
Mussolini also wanted to keep up with his image of a mighty Italy.
However, the war 'bled Italy white'. It cost half a year's tax revenue, and the lira was devalued.
It used up much-needed weapons and ammunition.
Made the government unpopular.
Unprepared for major war in 1939.
Italy gained little of real value.

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