they were powered by gunpowder
1000AD or so.
The first gunpowder-powered rockets were developed in Song China, by the 13th century.
Here's a rephrasing: How are rockets powered, by fuel? Yes, that's pretty much correct.
By nuclear fuel
in hills
small air powered motors
Germany
The first rockets were firework's built by the Chinese
Three main types of rockets that power modern spacecrafts are liquid-propellant rockets, solid-propellant rockets, and hybrid rockets. Liquid-propellant rockets use liquid fuel and oxidizer, solid-propellant rockets use solid fuel and oxidizer mixed together, and hybrid rockets use a combination of solid and liquid propellants.
Today, rockets are powered by a variety of propulsion systems, primarily utilizing liquid and solid propellants. Liquid rockets use a combination of liquid fuels, such as kerosene or hydrogen, and oxidizers, while solid rockets rely on a pre-made solid fuel mixture. Additionally, some modern rockets are experimenting with hybrid systems that combine elements of both. Advancements in technology also explore green propellants that aim to reduce environmental impact.
Italy did not use rocket missile or rocket-powered aircraft in World War II. They may well have fired off mortar shells which were and are essentially rockets- but so did most of the combatants. Italy had some neat submarines, but not rockets.
Soyuz spacecraft are powered by Semyorka rockets.