Emperor Haile Selassie of Abyssinia delivered a powerful speech before the League of Nations in Geneva, where he sought assistance against Italian forces invading his country. The invasion had begun in October the previous year, following tensions stemming from Italy's desire to expand its colonial empire in Africa. Selassie's address was significant, as it underscored the failure of the League to prevent aggression and protect its members. He implored the assembly not only to see beyond the borders of Abyssinia but also to recognize the potential threats posed by fascist states to the broader international community. The speech was a call to action, and Selassie's emotional appeal resonated with many in attendance, though ultimately, it did not lead to meaningful intervention from the League.The backdrop of the invasion was characterized by Italy’s aspirations under Benito Mussolini to restore a sense of Roman imperialism. The League's lack of decisive action when needed culminated in its inability to enforce its policies effectively, reflecting a broader crisis in the organization's legitimacy. Abyssinia had been a member of the League since its inception, and Selassie's appeal was not just for military support but also for the principles of justice and international law. The image of a monarch appealing to the collective conscience of nations was powerful, representing both the hope and despair that plagued many nations facing similar threats throughout the 1930s. Despite his plea, the League’s inaction resulted in Abyssinia being fully occupied by Italian forces by May of the following year, marking a significant low point for international diplomacy.