THE ITALIAN ARMY IN THE BATTLE OF THE ALPS 1940

1-253720

Examines Italy's 1940 Alpine campaign against France, its operations, and historical reassessment. Reconstructs the campaign from strategic decision-making in Rome through to the final armistice negotiations at Villa Incisa. Places Italian operations firmly within their political and military context, examining Mussolini's decision to enter the war, the state of Italy's armed forces in 1940, and the constraints under which commanders were forced to operate. Provides a detailed, sector-by-sector account of the fighting along the entire Alpine front, from Mont Blanc to the Mediterranean coast. Particular attention is given to the actions of the Alpini, Bersaglieri, regular infantry divisions, Blackshirt units, Border Guard formations, and supporting artillery, as well as to French Alpine troops and fortress garrisons defending the Maginot Line of the Alps. Contains 124 black and white photos, 8 color plates, and 7 black and white maps.