Ahmed Muhtar Pasha vs Italo Balbo

Ahmed Muhtar Pasha commanded Ottoman forces in the Caucasus campaign against Russia during the 1877-1878 Russo-Turkish War. He achieved initial victories at the Battle of Kizil-Tepe but was ultimately forced to retreat after the fall of Erzurum.

Ahmed Muhtar Pasha was appointed Grand Vizier of the Ottoman Empire in July 1912, leading the 'Great Cabinet' government. His administration lasted only four months, falling in October 1912 due to the outbreak of the First Balkan War.

Ahmed Muhtar Pasha resigned as Grand Vizier on October 29, 1912, following the Ottoman Empire's military defeats in the First Balkan War. His resignation marked the end of the 'Great Cabinet' and the return of the Committee of Union and Progress to power.

Balbo led a mass transatlantic flight of 24 Savoia-Marchetti S.55 flying boats from Italy to the Century of Progress exposition in Chicago. The flight demonstrated Italian aviation prowess and was a major propaganda success for the Fascist regime.

Balbo was appointed governor of the Italian colony of Libya. He implemented infrastructure projects, including the Litoranea Balbia coastal highway, and pursued a policy of Italian settlement, but also faced resistance from local populations.

Balbo was flying as a passenger in a Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 when his aircraft was shot down by Italian anti-aircraft fire over Tobruk, Libya. The incident was officially ruled an accident, though some suspected deliberate action by rivals within the Fascist hierarchy.