Eritrea, often considered Italy's first colony, was pivotal for Italian expansionism, particularly during Mussolini's regime. Initially drawn by its strategic location at the Red Sea, Italy declared Eritrea a colony in 1890, using it as a launchpad to invade Ethiopia in the 1930s. The opening of the Suez Canal significantly boosted its importance as a trading hub, propelling other powers to strengthen their footholds in the area. Despite its long colonial history, Eritrea remained part of Ethiopia until gaining independence in 1991.
During the age of imperialism, many European powers extended their control globally, with Italy being a latecomer trying to solidify its colonial ambitions.
Eritrea served as Italy's main colony, catalyzing Mussolini's plans to elevate Fascist Italy as a global power through colonization and military expansion.
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