What if Italy Joined the Central Powers? Animated Alternate History

This paragraph discusses Italy's decision to break from the Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary during WWI, which had a significant impact on the outcome of the war. Historically, Italy and Germany were new kingdoms with common goals of expansion. However, Italy's past struggles with Austria-Hungary, who sought to suppress Italian unification, led to a strained relationship. The Trentino Crisis, where Italy demanded territories from Austria-Hungary, further weakened the alliance. Germany's failure to mediate effectively resulted in Italy signing a non-aggression treaty with France and eventually joining the Entente. Italy's involvement in the war played a crucial role by diverting Central Powers' forces and aiding in the Entente's victory. The paragraph also explores an alternate scenario where diplomatic changes lead to Italy joining the Central Powers, resulting in a different outcome for WWI.

In this hypothetical scenario, Italy's alignment with the Central Powers drastically changes the course of WWI. The Schlieffen Plan is more effectively implemented due to a thinner French line, leading to a rapid German advance and the capture of Paris. Italy's support allows for a significant push against the French and British forces, with Italian forces making territorial gains in North Africa and capturing key Mediterranean locations. The Central Powers' naval dominance disrupts Allied operations, and the absence of the Gallipoli campaign saves Winston Churchill's reputation. The Eastern Front also favors the Central Powers as they make significant advances into Russian territory, leading to the capture of key cities and a separate peace agreement signed by the Russian government. The Romanian and Serbian fronts also collapse under the pressure of the Central Powers, leading to their control over these regions.

The paragraph outlines the new world order following the Central Powers' victory in WWI. Peace negotiations in Frankfurt result in substantial territorial gains for Italy, including southern France, North African territories, and control over the Suez Canal. Austria-Hungary also experiences territorial losses but manages to stabilize its empire through federalization and addressing ethnic tensions. Bulgaria annexes parts of Serbia and Dobruja from Romania. The Ottoman Empire expands significantly, annexing British Middle Eastern holdings and other territories. Germany emerges as a global hegemon, securing control over large parts of Europe and Africa, and experiencing dramatic economic growth. The Entente powers, especially France, suffer heavy losses, including colonial holdings and their navy. The post-war period also sees the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in Russia under Alexei II and the crushing of the Bolshevik uprising by German forces.

This final paragraph speculates on the future power dynamics and potential conquests in the new world order established after the Central Powers' victory. Italy becomes a de facto Mediterranean power with vast territories to boost its industrial capacity, setting sights on further conquests including Greece, Anatolia, and Iberia. Germany, alongside the UK and the US, becomes a global hegemon with control over Africa and Eastern Europe. The paragraph invites viewers to share their thoughts on whether Italy would continue its conquests or ally with the Ottomans, and who Germany would support in potential future conflicts. It also encourages viewers to like, subscribe, and stay updated for further explorations of this alternate history.