Italian invasion of Albania facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Italian invasion of Albania |
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| Belligerents | |||||||||
 Italy |
 Albania |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||||
| Alfredo Guzzoni |
Zog I |
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| Strength | |||||||||
| 10,000+ | 5,000 | ||||||||
The Italian Invasion of Albania was a quick military attack by Italy to take control of Albania. This happened in April 1939, just before World War II began. Italy was led by a powerful ruler named Benito Mussolini, who wanted Italy to become a bigger and stronger country.
Contents
What Happened?
Benito Mussolini was a dictator of Italy. A dictator is a leader who has complete power over their country. Mussolini led a political movement called Fascism. Fascism is a way of ruling that focuses on a strong, central government and often involves taking over other lands. Mussolini wanted to expand Italy's power and territory. He set his sights on Albania, a small country across the Adriatic Sea from Italy.
Why Did Italy Invade Albania?
Mussolini believed that Albania was important for Italy's future. He wanted to control the Adriatic Sea. Taking over Albania would give Italy more power in the region. Italy also had economic interests in Albania. They wanted to use Albania's resources and control its trade. Mussolini also wanted to show the world how strong Italy was.
The Attack Begins
Albania was aware that Italy might invade. King Zog I, the ruler of Albania, prepared his small army for defense. However, Albania was much smaller and weaker than Italy. On April 7, 1939, Italy launched a surprise attack. A large fleet of Italian ships carried soldiers and tanks to the Albanian coast. They attacked several cities at once.
Albania's Fight and Surrender
Albanian forces, though brave, were heavily outnumbered. They fought hard in places like Durrës and Vlorë. But the Italian army was too strong. They had more soldiers, better weapons, and tanks. Within a day, the Italians had taken control of much of the country. King Zog I and his family had to leave Albania. By April 10, most of Albania was under Italian control. The invasion officially ended on April 12, when Albania surrendered.
What Happened Next?
After the invasion, Albania became a protectorate of Italy. This meant Italy controlled Albania's government and military. Italy's King Victor Emmanuel III became the King of Albania. This invasion was an important step for Italy. It showed Mussolini's plan to expand his empire. It also showed how countries were becoming aggressive before World War II.
Images for kids
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Italian troops and L3/35 tanks in Durrës.
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A travel document from 1940, issued after the invasion.
See also
In Spanish: Invasión italiana de Albania para niños
