What were the consequences of the Stresa Front’s failure?

The failure of the Stresa Front led to the strengthening of Nazi Germany and the start of World War II.

The Stresa Front was an agreement between Britain, France, and Italy in 1935, aimed at maintaining the status quo in Europe following Germany's violation of the Treaty of Versailles. However, the Front collapsed due to various reasons, leading to significant consequences.

Firstly, the failure of the Stresa Front allowed Nazi Germany to grow stronger. The Front was formed in response to Germany's rearmament, which was a violation of the Treaty of Versailles. However, the collapse of the Front meant that there was no united front to oppose Germany's actions. This allowed Germany to continue its rearmament programme unabated, leading to a significant increase in its military strength.

Secondly, the failure of the Stresa Front led to the start of World War II. The Front was supposed to act as a deterrent to Germany's aggressive expansionist policies. However, its collapse meant that Germany faced little opposition to its annexation of Austria and the Sudetenland, which were key steps on the path to war. The lack of a united front against Germany's actions emboldened Hitler and made war more likely.

Thirdly, the failure of the Stresa Front undermined the credibility of the League of Nations. The Front was formed outside the framework of the League, reflecting the lack of faith in the League's ability to maintain peace. The collapse of the Front further weakened the League, as it showed that even a united front of major powers could not prevent aggression.

Finally, the failure of the Stresa Front led to a shift in alliances. Italy, one of the members of the Front, later allied with Germany, partly due to the failure of the Front. This shift in alliances was a significant factor in the lead-up to World War II.

In conclusion, the failure of the Stresa Front had significant consequences, including the strengthening of Nazi Germany, the start of World War II, the undermining of the League of Nations, and a shift in alliances.