Why did the allies invade Italy before france?

Why did the allies invade italy before france in WW2?



Answer on Why did the allies invade Italy before france?



Italy was quite vulnerable after the North African campaign. By invading Italy, the Allies forced Germany to move large numbers of troops into northern Italy to protect the Reich from attack from the south. These troops were not available to oppose the invasion of France, thus making the Normandy landings more feasible.



There was also a political reason for invading Italy. Stalin was loudly calling for a "second front" in Europe to relieve pressure on Russia.

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