foreign policy during tewodros the second
Tewodros II, also known as Emperor Theodore II, was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1855 until his death in 1868. He is known for his efforts to modernize Ethiopia, unify various Ethiopian kingdoms, and establish a strong central government. His foreign policy during his reign was marked by attempts to strengthen Ethiopia's relationship with foreign powers, most notably Britain, use foreign technology and expertise to develop the country, and resist foreign encroachment on Ethiopian territory.
1. Strengthening relations with Europe: Tewodros II was adamant about fostering diplomatic relations with European powers, particularly Britain. He believed that European technologies, skills, and military assistance would be beneficial in modernizing his empire. Tewodros initially enjoyed a cordial relationship with the British government, who sent a mission to his court to deliver gifts and discuss potential collaboration. However, relations between the two nations soured when the British did not respond to Tewodros's request for military assistance, which led to his infamous decision to take British diplomatic representatives hostage, sparking the 1868 British Expedition to Abyssinia.
2. Seeking foreign expertise: One of Tewodros's main objectives was to modernize Ethiopia using foreign expertise. He invited European artisans, engineers, and military advisors to help develop Ethiopian infrastructure and improve its military capabilities. European experts assisted Tewodros in building roads, manufacturing firearms, and training his army in more modern warfare techniques.
3. Christian solidarity: As a devout Christian, Tewodros II sought to strengthen ties with other Christian nations, especially Britain and Russia. He pursued diplomatic relations with both countries, aiming to foster religious and ethnic solidarity. Throughout his reign, he attempted to create an alliance of Christian nations to protect Ethiopia from encroachment by the expanding Ottoman Empire and the Egyptian Khedivate.
4. Resisting foreign encroachment: Tewodros II's foreign policy was characterized by a strong resistance to foreign encroachment on Ethiopian territory. In the mid-19th century, the Red Sea coastal region and the Horn of Africa were the focus of imperial ambitions by several European powers. Determined to maintain Ethiopian sovereignty, Tewodros sought to fortify his empire's borders and protect it from European expansionism. This attitude eventually led to confrontations with the British and other European powers who sought to expand their influence in the region.
In conclusion, Tewodros II's foreign policy was centered around improving and modernizing Ethiopia through European partnerships while maintaining Ethiopian sovereignty and protecting its borders. His reign was marked by his efforts to obtain foreign expertise and create alliances with Christian nations. However, his confrontational approach, particularly with the British, led to his ultimate downfall and death in 1868, when a British-led coalition defeated his forces and Tewodros committed suicide rather than surrender.