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Wars & Treaties, 1815 to 1914

Chapter 230: Cause:
By Baron Arthur Ponsonby Ponsonby
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About This Book

A concise chronological survey presents the major international conflicts of the nineteenth century and the treaties that settled them. Each entry gives a brief outline of the occasion, underlying causes, principal developments, and outcomes, arranged for quick reference. An introduction examines patterns behind recurring hostilities, distinguishing immediate pretexts from deeper political tensions and noting shifts such as the rise of national aspirations and the waning of religious and purely dynastic motives. The volume also supplies an index of treaties and a bibliography to guide further research.

THE ITALO-ABYSSINIAN WAR
1895–1896

Belligerents:

Italy.
Abyssinia.

Cause:

Having become a united nation, Italy soon developed Imperialistic ambitions. She looked towards Tunis, but was forestalled there by France in 1881. In 1884, being secure from an attack by land, by an alliance with Austria concluded in 1882, and being assured by Great Britain that the occupation by a friendly Power of certain positions on the Red Sea littoral would not be regarded unfavourably, the Italian Government decided on a forward policy in Africa.

Occasion:

After a preliminary expedition in 1887, which was unsuccessful and had to be recalled, a treaty was made with Menelek, after the death of King John of Abyssinia, which was interpreted in Italy as involving Italian suzerainty over Abyssinia. Italy supported Menelek against his rival Ras Mangascia.

Course of the War:

Italian victories over the Dervishes at Agordat (1893) and Cassala (1894) encouraged the ambition of Italy for a vast African Empire. On a further Italian advance in 1895 the Abyssinians united in their resistance. Menelek repudiated all idea of a protectorate, and General Baratieri suffered a disastrous defeat at Adowah, March 1, 1896.

Political Result:

The Italian suzerainty over Abyssinia was abandoned, and by the Treaty of Peace signed in September 1900, the frontiers of the Italian colony were reduced.

Remarks:

The attempt on the part of Italy to hunt with the lions in colonial aggrandizement ended in humiliation. Italy was now able to devote its attention to much-needed internal reforms. But the Imperialist policy only died down to be revived later.