World War II April 7, 1939

Throughout the Monarchy period, Albania enjoyed a great economic support from Italy, which came mostly due to the strategic importance as a gateway to the Balkans that Albania had. Over the years, Italy had managed to penetrate Albania’s economy, government and military structures, and while the second great war was arising, on April 7, 1939, the fascist Italian army invaded Albania. But the worst had not come yet, because with the capitulation of Italy, the country was quickly occupied by the Nazis.