Historical Events tagged with "ethiopia"
Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.
Coup against Haile Selassie in Ethiopia
While Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia was visiting Brazil, a coup was launched by his Imperial Bodyguard in Addis Ababa. The bodyguard seized the capital and declared Selassie deposed, naming his son, Crown Prince Asfa Wossen, as the new emperor. This scenario unfolded rapidly, demonstrating the precarious balance of power within the Ethiopian monarchy amid significant political tensions.
Continue ReadingAbebe Bikila Wins Olympic Marathon Gold Barefoot
Abebe Bikila, an Ethiopian runner, notably won the marathon at the Rome Summer Olympics while running barefoot. This extraordinary achievement marked him as the first sub-Saharan African to secure a gold medal at the Olympics. His victory unfolded against the backdrop of a race that saw him taking the lead from the early stages, showcasing not only his remarkable resilience but also his unique training methods. The win was celebrated globally, inspiring athletes and citizens from Africa and beyond.
Continue ReadingUnited Nations Approves Eritrean Federation with Ethiopia
The United Nations General Assembly approved a federation between Eritrea and Ethiopia, creating a semi-autonomous Eritrean state under Ethiopian sovereignty. The resolution followed extensive discussions, reflecting post-World War II geopolitics and decolonization efforts. Eritrea had been administered by Britain after the Italian occupation, and the decision was aimed at stabilizing the Horn of Africa. It was considered a compromise, balancing Eritrea's desire for independence with Ethiopian claims over the territory. The federation was officially established on September 15, 1952.
Continue ReadingHaile Selassie Returns to Addis Ababa
Emperor Haile Selassie returned to Addis Ababa after a period of exile following the Italian invasion of Ethiopia. His return was celebrated as a victory over Fascism, culminating in a grand reception as he entered the city. Ethiopians united in joy, marking this moment as their Liberation Day. The liberation from foreign occupation brought a renewed sense of national pride and unity among the Ethiopian people.
Continue ReadingBritish Counter-Offensive in Italian East Africa
British forces initiated a counter-offensive in the Italian East Africa campaign, targeting Italian colonial forces in Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia. This operation aimed to dismantle Italian control in the region, which had been ongoing since Mussolini's invasion in 1935. The offensive leveraged British strengths, including well-trained troops and support from local forces. The successful advance would contribute significantly to the Allied strategy in the East African theater during World War II.
Continue ReadingItaly Withdraws from the League of Nations
Italy's departure from the League of Nations marked a significant moment in international diplomacy, illustrating the growing tensions in Europe. After its invasion of Ethiopia, which violated League principles, Italy faced sanctions. In response, Italy announced its exit from the League, asserting its desire to pursue its imperial ambitions without external interference. This decision was influenced by the leadership of Benito Mussolini, whose nationalist policies clashed with the League’s collective security framework.
Continue ReadingEthiopian 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.
Continue ReadingItaly Annexes Ethiopia After Addis Ababa Capture
On May 9, 1936, Italy formally annexed Ethiopia following its military conquest that began with the capture of its capital, Addis Ababa, on May 5. The annexation completed Italy's colonial ambitions in East Africa, establishing Italian control over Ethiopia, a nation that had fiercely resisted foreign domination. This move was met with international condemnation, reflecting heightened global tensions regarding imperialism and fascism in the lead-up to World War II.
Continue ReadingItalian Forces Take Control of Addis Ababa
Italian troops entered Addis Ababa, marking a significant moment in the Second Italo-Ethiopian War. Led by General Enrico Frattini, the advancing forces met little resistance as they overran the capital of Ethiopia, which had been under siege since the invasion began. The occupation was a culmination of months of conflict, resulting from Italy's ambitions to expand its empire in East Africa. As the Italian flag was raised over the city, it symbolized both the consolidation of Italy’s control and the beginning of a harsh occupation for the Ethiopian people.
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