Central Powers
The Central Powers were the coordinated military forces of Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottomans, and Bulgaria during World War 1.
Contents
History
The Central Powers were preceded by the Triple Alliance of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy.
The alliance was controversial within Italy. While Depretis sought to balance French power, there was also tension with Austria. Italy had seized Venice in the Austro-Prussian War, and there was interest in further irredentism.
Ultimately, Giolitti did not join the war declaration; in fact Salandra joined the war on part of the Allied Powers in 1915 instead. Sonnino had negotiated promises for Austrian lands in exchange for participation.
The Ottoman Empire and Bulgaria joined following the declaration of war.