OK, in the early 30´s an Italian geologist explores the Libyan desert and finds … OIL! And a f…ing lot of it.
No I’m Benny M. and what would I do with my new found wealth?
Nummero uno: Once the oil money starts flowing it is spend to improve the infrastructure in southern Italy. Like the “Benito Mussolini Railroad Line” connecting Rome with Naples and Taranto/Reggio Calabria. Top speed 125 mph. The industrialized North will get his share in the form of increased arms production.
Nummero due: Hold elections! With all that oil money a sure win.
Than there is this war. Several actually. I figure the one with Ethiopia is superfluous. Who needs military glory to get public support? Not me, I have oil money, I can buy all the public support I want. And this war in 39 is something Italy better stays away from. Probably something to gain, but why take the risk? Especially with my WW1 background in mind.
No, I stay neutral, reinforce Libya to make sure the Brits don’t try something with my oil wells, because they don’t want me sell it to my buddy Adolf. Of course I sell the Brits all the oil they can pay for, too.
Things change in December 1941 when Germany is stopped in Russia and the USA enters the war. Now it looks like Germany is going to loose and oil money or not a world dominated by the USA and the f…ing Commies is not a nice place for a fascist dictator like me, so I have to take action:
December 8th 1942: Operation Torch
Convoys with troops from the USA and the UK secretly slipped into the Med, sailed west and now arrive in …Naples, Rome and Sardinia where the people are somewhat surprised to learn the fascist ruled kingdom of Italy is the latest addition to the United Nations. By the way: I´m totally flattered that my style is so popular in the US Militray. There was me on my white steed, helmet on, cavalry boots and than this Major-General climbed out of the landing craft, almost exactly dressed like me. Got him a white steed ASAP and he gave me one of his revolvers. Good man!
Don´t look that surprised. Betraying the Germans in time of war is an honoured Italian tradition –ok, it was the Austrians actually, but Adolf is one- and this time it´s a much safer bet than in WW1.
Who dies it end: With me dying of old age in a bed –hopefully while at it with some hot chick like Clara Petacci- and being remembered as Italy´s greatest and most beloved leader.