Military history of Italy during World War II

During World War II, Italy was part of the Axis powers, a group of countries who were fighting against the Allied powers (countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and France). Italy had a long history of military involvement in war, but during World War II, they were led by a powerful dictator, Benito Mussolini, whose goal was to expand Italy's borders and make it a major power. Italy had a powerful army and navy, and they played a major role in the war on the side of the Axis powers. They invaded and occupied many countries in Europe, tried to conquer North Africa and the Middle East, and also sent soldiers and supplies to fight in the Soviet Union. In the end, however, their efforts were not enough and Italy lost the war.