“Enemies have now come upon us to ruin our country and to change our religion. Our enemies have begun the affair by advancing and digging into the country like moles. With the help of God I will not deliver my country to them. Today, you who are strong, give me your strength, and you who are weak, help me by prayer” - Emperor Menelik II
(Emperor Menelik II)
Emperor Menelik II was born as Abeto Menelik on August 17th, 1844 in Shewa, Ethiopia. In 1855 he was named successor to the throne of Shewa. Menelik declared himself Negus. Since he did not take part in the 1868 expedition to Abyssinia his rival was able to benefit with gifts of modern weapons and supplies from the British. In 1878 his rival took control of Menelik’s land but gave him gifts such as cannons, rifles and ammunition.
(Menelik II in 1878)
In 1883 he got married to Taytu Betul. In 1888 the great famine started. In 1889 after his rival died in battle Menelik became ruler again. He was then crowned “Nəgusä Nägäst”. Also in the same year he signed a treaty with the Italians. Since there was 2 versions of the treaty the Italian version gave the Italians more power in the treaty. Menelik then rejected the treaty once he found out about it. The Italians the invaded Ethiopia. Eritrea sided with Ethiopia when Italy attacked.
(A Drawing of Menelik II in 1889)
In 1893 he made an alliance with Russia. In 1894 he authorize the making of a railroad in the country. In 1896 the Ethiopians defeated the Italians at the battle of Adwa. He then signed another treaty with Italy so that Italy would recognize Ethiopia as an independent nation.
(A Painting of Menelik II in 1896)
In 1895 Menelik was suppressing the slave trade. In 1898 Menelik crushed a rebellion within the country.
(Menelik II in 1898)
He also brought together many rival areas to coexist with each other. He also established the 1st modern hospital, modern bank and modern postal system in Ethiopia. In 1909 Menelik suffered a stroke which made him unable to lead Ethiopia making his wife in charge of the country.
(Menelik II in 1909)
On December 12th, 1913 Emperor Menelik II died due to failing health in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He was 69 years old.
(A Statue of Menelik II)
Today is his 173rd birthday and we would all like to say happy birthday and rest in peace Emperor Menelik II.
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