Zewditu I of Ethiopia

Empress of Ethiopia and monarch

Zewditu I of Ethiopia - Leaders & Politicians born 1876
Born

1876
149 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Ethiopia

Links & References

Zewditu I served as Empress of Ethiopia from 1916 until 1930. Ascending to the throne following a power struggle, she was the first female head of state in modern Ethiopian history. Zewditu ruled during a period marked by efforts to modernize the country while facing challenges from both internal factions and external threats. Despite her authority, political conflicts arose, particularly with the rise of her cousin, Ras Bitwaddad Tesemma. The period witnessed significant changes as Ethiopia navigated its identity in the wake of colonial pressures in Africa. Zewditu's reign ended with her death in 1930, after which her cousin became Emperor Haile Selassie I, ushering in a new era for the nation.

First female head of state in Ethiopia

Reign from 1916 to 1930

Navigated modernization efforts

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