In World War II, the Axis powers consisted of Germany, Italy, and Japan. However, when it comes to their involvement in World War I, the answer becomes more nuanced. While Germany and Austria-Hungary were part of the Central Powers in World War I, they fought against the Allies, not with them. Italy, on the other hand, initially fought alongside the Central Powers but later switched sides to join the Allies.

Germany and Austria-Hungary formed a strong alliance known as the Central Powers during World War I. They fought against the Allied powers, which included France, the United Kingdom, Russia, and later the United States. These nations were united by a common goal to defeat the Central Powers and restore peace to Europe. The war lasted from 1914 to 1918 and resulted in heavy casualties and significant damage to the participating countries.

Italy, initially a member of the Triple Alliance alongside Germany and Austria-Hungary, did not join the war immediately. They argued that the alliance was defensive and did not require their support unless the war was provoked by aggression. Italy eventually entered the war in 1915, but instead of fighting with the Central Powers, they joined forces with the Allies.

Italy's decision to switch sides was motivated by several factors. Firstly, they believed that by joining the Allies, they would gain territorial rewards at the end of the war. Secondly, they were dissatisfied with the territorial gains promised to them by the Central Powers. Lastly, Italy saw an opportunity to align themselves with the winning side as the war turned in favor of the Allies.

Italy's switch of allegiance had a significant impact on the course of World War I. It weakened the Central Powers and added another major force to the Allied side. Italian troops fought alongside the Allies in various theaters of war, including the Italian Front and the Balkans. Their contribution was crucial in helping the Allies achieve victory in the final year of the conflict.

In conclusion, while Germany and Austria-Hungary fought against the Allies in World War I as part of the Central Powers, Italy switched sides and fought alongside the Allies. Italy's decision to join the Allies had a significant impact on the outcome of the war and contributed to the eventual victory of the Allied powers.

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