Ethiopia Repels Italian Invaders

1. Ethiopia Repels Italian Invaders By: Caleb, Cameron, & Morry

3. Emperor Menelik II • Emperor of Ethiopia from 1889- 1913 • His reign was witnessed as a reunification and modernization of his country • He believed that “discrimination is a result of ignorance” • “He guaranteed justice for all, and was called the father of his people” • “He declared the farmer more important than king”

4. Treaty of Perpetual Peace and Friendship  • Treaty between Ethiopia and Italy- established on May 2nd 1889 • Treaty was destined to be in crucial significance in the history of Ethiopian relations with European Powers. • The Italian translation that was different from the Ethiopian version. It stated that Italy had a protectorate over Ethiopia. • After a delay of 2 years Menelik denounced the treaty of Feb 12 1893, declaring “Ethiopia had need of no one; she stretches out her hands unto God.”

5. Fighting Begins • Began in Jan 1895 • Between the two years from the Treaty to the denouncement, Menelik had an good advantage by importing large quantities of fire arms. • At first, the Italians had succeeded, but later Menelik moved north with a larger and more well armed forces. • Another advantage: good relations with inhabitants of area where battle was fought  therefore informed Menelik best areas and paths to take • Italians had no accurate maps and ultimately was in confusion. • Final result, Italy was completely defeated.

6. LEGACY • Menelik gained enormous local and international prestige • Italians agreed to peace Treaty of Addis Ababy • Addis Ababa emerged as a regular diplomatic centre • Therefore caused absolute and complete independence of Ethiopia (one of two countries in Africa that was independent) • Months following, French and British governments sent signed treaties to Menelik