Albania, a small nation with valuable resources, became a pawn in the grander political schemes of European powers like Italy. Mussolini, with an eye on its resources and strategic position, tightened his grip over the years, leading to Italy’s annexation of Albania in 1939.

• 1912: Albania gains independence from the Ottoman Empire.
• Post-WWI: Some Albanians still lived outside Albania's borders, especially in Greece.
• Why Everyone's Eyeing Albania?:
  • Limited arable land but valuable oil & minerals.
  • Strategic location for control over the Mediterranean.

Real-World Example:Imagine a popular schoolyard where everyone wants to sit, because it’s sunny and close to the snack bar. That’s Albania in the 20th-century European schoolyard!

• Neighboring Problems
  • Yugoslavia and Greece wanted to expand into Albania. Think of them as kids who wanted more of the schoolyard.
  • This led to border clashes with both countries.
• Drama Alert 🚨: The Corfu Incident (controlled by Mussolini). Remember to check out page 95!

• Resource Hunt: Desired Albania’s oil & minerals for Italy’s policy of self-sufficiency (autarky).
• Strategic Importance:
  • Called the Mediterranean his "Italian lake".
  • Control over Albania = Foot in the Balkans + Keeping Yugoslavia in line.

Real-World Example:It's like when you want the best room in the house. Not just because it's cozy, but because it has the best view, and it’s next to the kitchen!