The Italian invasion of Ethiopia began in October 1935, characterized by modern warfare tactics and brutal military campaigns. Despite Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie's appeals to the League of Nations, Italy’s aggression went largely unchecked. On May 5, 1936, Italian troops captured Addis Ababa, prompting the collapse of Ethiopian resistance. Four days later, the formal annexation of Ethiopia was proclaimed, signifying a critical expansion of Italian colonial territory in Africa, which also included Eritrea and Somalia. The annexation was marked by a proclamation from Mussolini, who envisioned a new Roman Empire in Africa.

The occupation faced significant resistance from Ethiopian forces, and while Italy established a colonial government, this did not quell the spirit of Ethiopian nationalism. The Italian regime implemented policies aimed at cultural assimilation and economic exploitation. Our understanding of the resilience of Ethiopian identity gained importance as the Ethiopian people would ultimately seek liberation in the subsequent years. Resistance movements continued to emerge against Italian rule, leading to a prolonged conflict.

Haile Selassie became a symbol of the Ethiopian fight against fascism, earning him global recognition. His vibrant return to power in 1941 marked the end of Italian rule after World War II. Ethiopia’s annexation and subsequent liberation altered the dynamics of colonial and post-colonial struggles in Africa, contributing significantly to the continent's nationalist movements in the mid-20th century.