The Battle of Coatit signaled the commencement of the First Italo-Ethiopian War, as Italian aspirations for colonial expansion in East Africa came to fruition. The engagement took place in the Ethiopian town of Coatit on January 13, 1895, where Italian forces, under General Oreste Baratieri, aimed to establish a foothold and exert control over the territory. This conflict stemmed from Italy's desire to enhance its empire, facing an Ethiopian empire that maintained its independence and sought to repel foreign encroachment.

The battle unfolded with a series of confrontations between the well-equipped Italian troops and the Ethiopian defenders led by Ras Makonnen. Despite being outnumbered and operating in difficult terrain, the Italians employed superior artillery and military tactics. The result was a significant victory that showcased the effectiveness of European military strategies against African forces, altering the dynamics of colonial power in the region.

The triumph at Coatit provided the Italians with a crucial morale boost and strengthened their military position in Ethiopia. This victory was part of a broader campaign that would eventually lead to further confrontations, culminating in the Second Battle of Adwa. The balance of power was significantly influenced, as it prompted Ethiopia to fortify its defense tactics and seek alliances to counter Italian ambitions. The lessons learned from the Battle of Coatit resonated beyond the battlefield, affecting both military strategies and colonial policies in East Africa.