Historical Events tagged with "fascism"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Italy Annexes Ethiopia After Addis Ababa Capture

May 9th, 1936 88 years ago

On May 9, 1936, Italy formally annexed Ethiopia following its military conquest that began with the capture of its capital, Addis Ababa, on May 5. The annexation completed Italy's colonial ambitions in East Africa, establishing Italian control over Ethiopia, a nation that had fiercely resisted foreign domination. This move was met with international condemnation, reflecting heightened global tensions regarding imperialism and fascism in the lead-up to World War II.

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Military & Warfare

Italian Forces Take Control of Addis Ababa

May 5th, 1936 88 years ago

Italian troops entered Addis Ababa, marking a significant moment in the Second Italo-Ethiopian War. Led by General Enrico Frattini, the advancing forces met little resistance as they overran the capital of Ethiopia, which had been under siege since the invasion began. The occupation was a culmination of months of conflict, resulting from Italy's ambitions to expand its empire in East Africa. As the Italian flag was raised over the city, it symbolized both the consolidation of Italy’s control and the beginning of a harsh occupation for the Ethiopian people.

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Politics & Government

The Popular Front Secures Victory in Spain

February 16th, 1936 89 years ago

The Popular Front coalition achieved significant electoral success during the Spanish general election, solidifying their position in the Spanish government. Comprising various leftist groups, including communists and socialists, the coalition aimed to combat rising fascism in Spain. The election results illustrated a shift in political power, as the Popular Front obtained a majority in both houses of parliament, indicating widespread public support for progressive policies in the face of increasing conservative opposition. The election took place against a backdrop of social unrest and political polarization.

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Military & Warfare

Italy Invades Ethiopia in 1935

October 3rd, 1935 89 years ago

In 1935, Italy launched a military invasion of Ethiopia, marking the beginning of the Second Italo-Abyssinian War. The invasion was led by Italian troops under the command of General Emilio De Bono, with the intent of expanding Italy's colonial empire in Africa. This military aggression was justified by Mussolini's desire to create a new Roman Empire and to avenge Italy's defeat at the Battle of Adwa in 1896. The Ethiopian forces, under Emperor Haile Selassie, faced a well-equipped and modernized Italian army, which employed chemical weapons against the largely unarmed Ethiopian soldiers and civilians. The conflict would draw international attention and condemnation.

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Politics & Government

Adolf Hitler Assumes Title of Führer

August 2nd, 1934 90 years ago

Following the death of President Paul von Hindenburg, Reichskanzler Adolf Hitler consolidated his power, merging the presidency and chancellorship into the position of Führer. This transition marked a significant shift in the German government, as Hitler sought to establish a totalitarian regime. The event was characterized by widespread celebrations from Nazi supporters and was part of a broader agenda to strengthen the Nazi party's grip on Germany, utilizing propaganda and political maneuvers to quell dissent.

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Politics & Government

Austrian Civil War's Turning Point

February 16th, 1934 91 years ago

The Austrian Civil War culminated in a decisive defeat for the Social Democrats and the Republikanischer Schutzbund, marking a series of confrontations between the government and leftist paramilitary forces. Clashes were concentrated mainly in Linz and the surrounding areas, where government troops effectively suppressed the uprising. The Social Democrats sought to counter the rising influence of Austrian nationalism and fascism, leading to violent confrontations with the conservative government. The defeat led to a consolidation of power by conservative forces in Austria, with significant implications for the political landscape.

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Politics & Government

Chancellor Dollfuss Enacts Authoritarian Rule

March 4th, 1933 92 years ago

Following a procedural dispute, Chancellor Engelbert Dollfuss suspended the Austrian Parliament, effectively initiating an authoritarian regime. This drastic move came amid increasing political tensions in the country as Dollfuss sought to stabilize the government and diminish the influence of political adversaries, particularly the socialist factions. By ruling by decree, he paved the way for a one-party state and the suppression of dissent.

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Politics & Government

Michele Schirru Executed for Attempting to Kill Mussolini

May 29th, 1931 93 years ago

Michele Schirru, an American citizen and anti-fascist, was captured in Italy after attempting to assassinate Benito Mussolini. He was executed by a firing squad of the Royal Italian Army during a period of escalating fascist repression. Schirru's actions were motivated by his opposition to Mussolini's regime, which he viewed as oppressive and authoritarian. The execution took place in a climate of fear and political turmoil, reflecting the harsh penalties imposed on dissenters in Italy at the time.

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Politics & Government

Italy and Vatican Sign the Lateran Treaty

February 11th, 1929 96 years ago

The Lateran Treaty was signed between Italy and the Vatican, establishing the Vatican City as an independent sovereign state. This agreement resolved long-standing disputes following the unification of Italy. Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini represented the Italian government, while Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli, who later became Pope Pius XII, represented the Vatican. The treaty officially recognized the Vatican's independence and regulated relations between the Italian state and the Holy See.

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