Ethiopian Nationalists Attack Viceroy Graziani

February 19th, 1937

February 19th, 1937

Ethiopian Nationalists Attack Viceroy Graziani
How Long Ago?

88 years, 24 days ago

Location

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Category

Politics & Government

War/Conflict

Second Italo-Ethiopian War

People
  • Rodolfo Graziani
Links & References
Tags

Ethiopian Nationalists Attack Viceroy Graziani

During a public ceremony at the Viceregal Palace in Addis Ababa, two Ethiopian nationalists of Eritrean origin made an attempt on the life of Viceroy Rodolfo Graziani by throwing multiple grenades. This assassination attempt highlighted the growing resistance against Italian colonial rule in Ethiopia, as tensions in the region escalated following the Second Italo-Ethiopian War.

Rodolfo Graziani was the Italian viceroy.

Graziani faced increasing resistance from Ethiopians.

The attack involved the use of multiple grenades.

The incident led to severe crackdowns by Italian forces.

What Happened?

The attack on Viceroy Rodolfo Graziani occurred in the context of heightened anti-Italian sentiment among Ethiopians following Italy's brutal invasion and occupation of Ethiopia in the 1930s. Graziani, the Italian governor of occupied Ethiopia, had implemented harsh policies aimed at quelling resistance, which further fueled discontent among the local population. On February 19, in a high-profile public ceremony at the Viceregal Palace, the two Eritrean-born Ethiopian nationalists sought to assassinate Graziani, hoping to galvanize a broader revolt against colonial rule. The attempt involved the use of grenades, which underscored the desperation and determination of those resisting occupation.However, the assassination attempt failed, resulting in chaos and a fierce crackdown by Italian authorities. The immediate aftermath saw a significant increase in repression directed at Ethiopians, further entrenching the cycles of violence and resistance. The event exemplified the ongoing struggle against colonial oppression, setting the stage for future opposition movements within Ethiopian society. Throughout this turbulent period, the actions of these nationalists would inspire subsequent generations and contribute to the enduring narrative of Ethiopian resistance against foreign domination.

Why Does it Matter?

The assassination attempt on Graziani serves as a critical marker in the struggle against Italian colonialism in Ethiopia. It revealed the underlying currents of nationalistic sentiment that had begun to coalesce among Ethiopians and highlighted the complexities of resistance movements within the region. The failed attack also prompted intensified reprisals from the Italian military, further polarizing the situation in Ethiopia and creating a legacy of resistance that would culminate in future struggles for independence.

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