1. Invasion of Ethiopia (1935): In October 1935, Italy invaded Ethiopia, a country in East Africa. This invasion was motivated by Mussolini's desire to expand Italy's colonial empire and gain access to resources. The invasion was met with international condemnation and led to economic sanctions against Italy.
2. Support for the Nationalists in the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939): Italy actively supported the Nationalist forces led by General Francisco Franco in the Spanish Civil War. Mussolini sent troops, weapons, and supplies to aid Franco's forces in their fight against the Spanish Republic. This intervention helped to prolong the conflict and resulted in the eventual victory of the Nationalists.
3. Annexation of Albania (1939): In April 1939, Italy invaded and annexed Albania, a small country in the Balkans. This act of aggression further increased tensions in Europe and demonstrated Mussolini's expansionist ambitions.
4. Pact of Steel (1939): In May 1939, Italy signed the Pact of Steel with Germany. This alliance between the two fascist powers pledged mutual support and assistance in the event of war. The Pact of Steel solidified Italy's position as an ally of Germany and increased the risk of a wider conflict in Europe.
These aggressive actions by Italy were part of Mussolini's larger strategy to create a "Greater Italy" and to assert Italy's status as a major power. They contributed to the climate of tension and instability in Europe that eventually led to the outbreak of World War 2.