Final answer:
Italy invaded Abyssinia on October 3, 1935, under the leadership of Mussolini. The League of Nations' response was limited, and despite Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie's pleas, Italy's occupation continued. This aggressiveness set the stage for further developments leading to World War II.
Step-by-step explanation:
Italy's Invasion of Abyssinia
The invasion of Abyssinia (Ethiopia) by Italy began on October 3, 1935. The incursion was led by Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, who sought to fulfill imperialistic ambitions and reestablish Italian glory reminiscent of the Roman Empire.
Despite Haile Selassie, the Emperor of Abyssinia, appealing to the League of Nations for support, limited response was received. Economic sanctions imposed by the League were inadequate, with critical resources like coal and oil left out, allowing Italy to proceed with its expansionist desires largely unopposed.
The invasion had broader implications, contributing to the events that unfolded into World War II and setting a precedent for international response to such aggression. Ultimately, Italy consolidated its control over Abyssinia until the Allied forces' intervention later in World War II.