994 Chapter 7
Fatalities: None
Narrative: The tension between Austria-Hungary and Italy rose over debates about
each country’s respective influence in Albania. The success of Austria-Hungary’s pro-
paganda campaign in northern Albania put Italy on edge, and Italy began to establish
close relations with Montenegro to counterbalance the Austro-Hungarian influence in
the region. Both knew, however, that the true value of Albania lay in its ports, the pos-
session of which would mean dominance in the Adriatic Sea. For this reason, tension
increased as both countries sought to gain influence in Albania.
Tensions heightened even more in the autumn of 1904, when Austrian troops were
mobilized along its border with Italy in order to “restore the balance of forces” and
respond to hostile Italian intentions on the border. These movements were said to be
temporary border fortifications. Tensions ultimately eased, however. By November,
an Austro-Hungarian war minister explained the mobilization to his council and high-
lighted an improvement in relations between the countries.
MID#314
Dispute Number: 314
Date(s): October 2, 1911 to October 15, 1911
Participants: 300 Austria-Hungary/325 Italy
Outcome (and Settlement): Compromise (Negotiated)
Fatalities: None
Narrative: At the onset of the Tripolitanian War between Turkey and Italy (see
MID#114), Austria gave Italy a stern warning about a possible extension of the
conflict. Count von Aehrenthal, the Austrian foreign minister, informed the Italian
ambassador that any Italian foray into the Balkans on the Albanian coast would result
in the arrival of Austrian warships to protect Austrian interests. A few days after the
warning was given, Italian warships appeared at Prevasa with a demand for the Wali
to release Turkish ships that sought refuge in its harbors.
This crisis was tense and Italy’s perceived reluctance to localize the conflict put
a significant strain on the alliance. The crisis was short-lived for the two Triple
Alliance partners. German anxieties over meddling of the Triple Entente (England
and Russia especially) forced Austria and Italy to discuss the matter. No formal
agreement emerged, but the ensuing discussions were able to relay Italian intents
to keep the peace with Austria and Austrian intent to remain non-committal to
Turkey.
MID#257
Started in July 1914. See the narrative in the 300 Austria-Hungary/345 Yugoslavia dyad
dispute list.
MID#320
Dispute Number: 320