Which of the following best describes why Ethiopia’s resistance to Italian imperialism was successful
There are several factors that contributed to Ethiopia's successful resistance to Italian imperialism:
1. Strong leadership: Emperor Menelik II played a significant role in Ethiopia's resistance. He modernized the military, decentralizing power and enabling regional leaders to maintain control of their own territories. His leadership skills and ability to unite various Ethiopian ethnic groups were key factors in their triumph.
2. Geography and terrain: Ethiopia's mountainous and rugged terrains made it difficult for Italian forces to advance, giving the Ethiopian army an advantage. The Battle of Adwa, in particular, took place in hilly terrain that favored the Ethiopian defenders.
3. Population mobilization: The Ethiopian resistance was not limited to the military alone. Menelik II was able to rally and mobilize a significant portion of the Ethiopian population, including farmers, shepherds, and civilians, to participate in the resistance efforts. This mass mobilization gave Ethiopia a numerical advantage.
4. Knowledge of the land: Ethiopian forces possessed a deep understanding of the local geography, climate, and conditions. This knowledge allowed them to adapt their strategies and tactics to the environment, making it challenging for the Italian invaders.
5. International support: Ethiopia received diplomatic support from other nations, particularly Great Britain and Russia. This international backing created pressure on Italy and constrained its ability to carry out its imperialistic ambitions in Ethiopia.
Overall, a combination of strong leadership, geographical advantages, mass mobilization, local knowledge, and international support contributed to Ethiopia's successful resistance to Italian imperialism.