The History of the Twentieth Century 416 The Iron Gut of Europe
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Aug 31, 2025 Allied leaders faced intense strategic debates about the invasion of Italy during World War II. Their plans quickly hit hurdles as German defenses turned the campaign into a slow crawl. The resilience of Naples' locals emerged as a vital force in resistance efforts. The Canadian 1st Division's fierce battle for Ortona showcased the brutal realities of warfare. Additionally, a tragic bombing in Bari highlighted the hidden perils of chemical warfare, leaving lasting effects on military operations and personnel.
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Strategic Friction Slowed The Italian Campaign
- The Allies expected a quick Italian campaign but faced strong German defense led by Kesselring that slowed them to a crawl.
- British-American strategic disagreements and competing priorities hindered a unified, decisive plan in Italy.
Commanders’ Ego Clash At Salerno
- Bernard Montgomery bragged that his 8th Army saved the Americans at Salerno, which enraged U.S. General Mark Clark.
- Clark was a publicity seeker obsessed with being seen as the liberator of Rome.
Geography Made Italy A Defender’s Dream
- Italy's narrow, mountainous peninsula created ideal defensive terrain that favored the defenders and funneled Allied advances into predictable routes.
- Seasonal rains and river flooding multiplied those geographic advantages, turning progress into a slog.