Alliances With Austria-Hungary
Austria had a dual alliance with Germany it was signed in October 7, 1879. This alliance became the longest one in effect during World War I. Germany and Austria-Hungary wanted to keep it a secret to protect the privacy of each of the nations, naturally it did not stay a secret for long.
Austria had a dual alliance with Germany it was signed in October 7, 1879. This alliance became the longest one in effect during World War I. Germany and Austria-Hungary wanted to keep it a secret to protect the privacy of each of the nations, naturally it did not stay a secret for long.
Austria-Hungary later formed a secret triple alliance with Italy and Germany on may 20th 1882. This treaty was then renewed every year after until World War I. Italy wanted support in fighting the French after they lost their influence over their North African territories. The treaty stated that if Italy were attacked by the French, Germany and Austria-Hungary would intervene on Italy's behalf. And if Germany were attacked by France Italy would assist. If Austria-Hungary were to be invaded by Russia, Italy promised to remain neutral.
This treaty benefited the Austrians because in case of a Russian attack Austrian troops that would have been paroling the Italian border would be safe to leave and join the counter-offensive against Russia.
Picture: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Map_1914_WWI_Alliances.jpg