1. Complex Alliances and Rivalries: Italy had formed a series of alliances with various great powers, including the Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary. However, it also had unresolved territorial disputes with Austria-Hungary, particularly in the region of Trentino and Trieste, which created a sense of rivalry and tension between the two countries.
2. Nationalism and Irredentism: Italy was deeply influenced by nationalist sentiments, fueled by the desire to unify all Italian-speaking territories into a single nation. This concept, known as "Irredentism," led to Italy's aspiration to incorporate lands such as Trentino, Trieste, and Istria, which were under Austrian control.
3. Changing Foreign Policy: In the years leading up to the war, Italy's foreign policy underwent significant changes. Initially aligned with the Triple Alliance, Italy began to shift its diplomatic stance as tensions escalated. It sought to balance its commitments with a desire for territorial gain and improved relations with France and Britain.
4. The Balkan Crisis: The Balkan Wars of 1912 and 1913 further complicated Italy's position. The conflict in the Balkans intensified rivalries between Austria-Hungary and Russia, pushing Italy closer to France and Russia through a series of secret agreements.
5. Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand: Italy was not directly involved in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, but it was aware of the growing tension between Austria-Hungary and Serbia. While Italy had no specific plans to support Austria-Hungary in a potential conflict, its stance was more sympathetic towards its ally than completely neutral.
6. Declaration of Neutrality: Despite the assassination and subsequent diplomatic escalations, Italy initially declared neutrality at the outbreak of World War 1 in August 1914. However, both sides actively courted Italy's support, offering territorial concessions and political promises.
7. Entry into the war: Following several months of negotiations, Italy eventually joined the war on the side of the Allied Powers in May 1915. This decision was driven by a combination of factors, including the appeal of territorial gains promised by the Allies, the desire to assert Italian influence in the Balkans, and the prevailing nationalist sentiments within the country.
In summary, Italy's role in the lead-up to World War I was characterized by complex alliances, territorial aspirations, shifting foreign policies, and a gradual drift toward the Allied Powers. Its entry into the war reflected a convergence of strategic considerations, nationalist goals, and diplomatic maneuvering in the midst of a broader European crisis.