Treaty of London

Definition

The Treaty of London, signed in 1915, was a secret agreement between the Allies and Italy that promised Italy territorial gains in exchange for joining the war against the Central Powers. This treaty highlighted the shifting alliances and ambitions of European nations, as well as the intense nationalistic fervor that characterized the early years of World War I.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treaty of London promised Italy significant territorial gains, including parts of Austria-Hungary, such as South Tyrol and Istria.
2. Italy's decision to join the Allies in World War I was heavily influenced by promises made in this treaty, despite having been a member of the Triple Alliance.
3. The treaty was kept secret until after Italy had entered the war, reflecting the clandestine nature of many wartime agreements.
4. The expectations set by the Treaty of London led to discontent among Italian nationalists when not all promised territories were awarded after the war.
5. The treaty is often cited as a significant factor in Italy's post-war dissatisfaction and contributed to the rise of Fascism in the 1920s.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of London reflect Italy's shifting alliances during World War I?
  • The Treaty of London signified a major shift in Italy's alliances, as it moved from being part of the Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary to aligning itself with the Allies. The secretive nature of the treaty illustrated Italy's strategic calculations to maximize territorial gains during the war. By promising Italy land it desired, the Allies effectively capitalized on Italy's nationalistic aspirations while simultaneously weakening their enemies.
• Evaluate the impact of the Treaty of London on post-war Italian politics and society.
  • The Treaty of London had a profound impact on post-war Italian politics, as many Italians felt betrayed by the unfulfilled promises made regarding territorial gains. The disappointment led to a sense of 'mutilated victory' among veterans and nationalists, fueling political unrest. This atmosphere contributed to the rise of Fascism under Benito Mussolini, who capitalized on nationalistic sentiments by promising to restore Italy's glory and reclaim lost territories.
• Assess how the Treaty of London influenced broader international relations in Europe following World War I.
  • The Treaty of London had lasting implications for international relations in Europe after World War I, as it set a precedent for secret diplomacy and shifting alliances. The dissatisfaction stemming from unfulfilled promises under this treaty contributed to instability in Italy and served as a model for how national interests could override established alliances. This dynamic played into wider geopolitical tensions in Europe, ultimately influencing how nations approached future negotiations and treaties in a quest for power and territory.

Related terms

Triple Alliance:

An alliance formed in 1882 between Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, aimed at counterbalancing the power of France and Russia in Europe.

Entente Cordiale:

A series of agreements signed in 1904 between Britain and France that marked the end of centuries of intermittent conflict and established a diplomatic understanding between the two powers.

Nationalism:

A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often leading to the pursuit of independence or self-governance.