The Italo-Turkish War, spanning from 1911 to 1912, was a conflict between the Kingdom of Italy and the Ottoman Empire. Seeking to expand its territorial holdings, Italy launched an invasion of Ottoman North Africa, targeting the rich and strategically located territory of Libya. The war was prompted by Italy's aspirations for colonial expansion, spurred by a growing nationalism and a desire to compete with other European powers in the race for overseas colonies. On October 19, 1912, after sustained military campaigns and the establishment of coastal bases, Italy officially took possession of Libya, effectively ending centuries of Ottoman control.

This military engagement involved key battles, including the Siege of Tripoli, where Italian forces utilized modern warfare techniques, including air support and naval bombardment, which were relatively new at that time. The capture of the Libyan capital, Tripoli, was a significant victory for Italy, drawing attention to the outdated and shabby state of the Ottoman military and administration in Libya. The success allowed Italy to proclaim itself as a colonial power and laid the groundwork for future Italian rule, which would continue until World War II, despite the local resistance and uprisings that would occur later.

The conclusion of the war was formalized with the Treaty of Lausanne, where the Ottoman Empire officially ceded Libya to Italy. This treaty not only marked the end of Ottoman influence in North Africa but also indicated a shift in European colonial dynamics, as Italy emerged as a new player in the imperialist landscape. The integration of Libya into Italy's colonial empire would lead to significant cultural and administrative changes and has lasting implications for the region's future interactions with European powers.