What was one primary reason for Italy's invasion of Abyssinia in October 1935?

Italy's invasion of Abyssinia in October 1935 was primarily driven by the need for raw materials and land for population expansion. At the time, Italy was facing economic difficulties, including overpopulation and a lack of natural resources. The Italian government, led by Benito Mussolini, sought to build a new empire to bolster national pride and address economic challenges.

The desire for expansion into Abyssinia was a component of a broader strategy to establish Italy as a dominant force in Africa, reflecting imperial ambitions similar to those of other European powers. This invasion was justified by the regime as an act to claim territory for settlement and resource extraction, which were seen as essential for the country's future prosperity and security. This context of resource acquisition and territorial expansion was a significant motivating factor behind the military campaign against Abyssinia.