France

Great Britain

United States

Italy

Italy had joined World War I in 1915, despite the lack of enthusiasm that the Italian citizens hadfor entering the war. Towards the end of 1918, Italy's population had decreased due to malnutrition, a lack of work, and disease. The morale of the Italian people was also limited due to the humiliation of only joining the war towards the end. Within Italy, many changes were also leading to the destabilization of internal politics. The emergence of a socialist party came into conflict with the traditionalists, who were losing the secure hold on power they once had. Prior to meeting at Paris, Italy was also facing internal conflicts between the Italians and the Yugoslavs that were furthered by the government's effort to suppress the Yugoslavs. The conflicts had arisen from disputes over territory and over who was responsible for the War. As a result, there were many reports of deportation of Slav nationalists, arbitrary arrests and the closing of Slav businesses.25 To add to the matter, many Italians moving towards Albania and Serbia after the war were facing conflicts with the French, leading to an apprehensive attitude when entering Paris. Domestically, Italy entered Paris as the poorest of the world powers. Through the course of the War, Italy borrowed about $3.5 billion in wartime debts. With a high level of inflation, as well as remorse over the large loss of lives within the war, the separation between the traditionalists and the socialists continued to spread, causing an increased level of tension within the government. As a result, Orlando had hoped for triumph at Paris in an effort to hold Italy together. Italy and Vittorio Orlando

● Born 1860● He entered politics in 1897 ● He became Prime Minister in 1917; during the war

Vittorio Orlando was in a difficult position during the negotiations. His inability to speak English meant that there would be certain language barriers which could affect the entire negotiation process. He was stubborn and due to his weak political support in Italy, he wanted to make sure that his demands were met during the peace process.

Main Issues to take to the Treaty

● Orlando thought that by having Italy enter the war it would be guaranteed territory● During the war, Italy did not advance as the other Allies had hoped, making Italy unsure if it would be

granted the territory promised● It wanted land in Austria-Hungary and parts of the Ottoman Empire● Italy felt it had little support from France and the United States, therefore trying to make Great Britain

its closest Allie at the negotiations