 These actions attracted international attention and eventually inspired similar dictatorships such as Nazi Germany and Francoist Spain.In 1935, Mussolini invaded Ethiopia and founded the Italian East Africa, resulting in an international alienation and leading to Italy's withdrawal from the League of Nations; Italy allied with Nazi Germany and the Empire of Japan and strongly supported Francisco Franco in the Spanish civil war.In 1939, Italy annexed Albania, a "de facto" protectorate for decades.