September 8th

This day in history, September 8th, marks the anniversary of Italy signing the armistice during World War II.
Benito Mussolini had been Italy’s prime minister since 1922. In 1940 Mussolini’s Italy entered WWII on the side of Germany. After three years of war, Italy became torn between its loyalists to Mussolini and its partisans, who sought independence from Nazi Germany, the dominant member of the Axis powers.
The Allies exploited the Italian situation and implemented Operation Husky. On the night of July 9th, 1943, the Allies began their invasion of Sicily. The fact that the Allies had gained a foothold in Italy combined with the July 19th commencement of bombing Rome brought about change within Italian politics. On July 25th, King Victor Emmanuel III, in cooperation with The Grand Fascist Council, removed Mussolini from power and had him arrested. Mussolini was replaced by Marshal Pietro Badoglio who began secret negotiations with the Allies for peace.
On September 3rd, a treaty between Italy and the Allies was signed and on September 8th, 1943, the armistice was broadcast to the Italian people. Italy was now fighting with the Allies against Nazi Germany. This date is still remembered by Italians today. “ L’otto Settembre” signifies the armistice and the turning point of WWII for Italy.