The Second Italo-Abyssinian War

The Second Italo-Abyssinian War (1935-1936) was Italy’s invasion of Ethiopia (then Abyssinia), aiming to expand its empire. Italy, led by Mussolini, used military force—including chemical weapons, tanks, and aircraft—despite Ethiopia’s efforts to resist and international protests. The war resulted in Italy’s occupation of Ethiopia, creating a brief, brutal conflict fueled by imperial ambitions. It highlighted the failure of the League of Nations’ collective security approach and foreshadowed the broader tensions leading to World War II.