Discuss on the major battles that Ethiopians fought aganist foregin invaders and their contribution on the servival of ethiopia independence in the period between the second half of 19 centuries and the second quarter of 20 centuries .
Explain maximum seven page or more pages?
Title: Ethiopian Resistance: Major Battles and Contributions to Independence
Introduction:
Ethiopia, often referred to as the cradle of humanity, has a rich history of defending its independence and sovereignty against foreign invaders. This article explores the major battles Ethiopians fought against foreign invaders and analyzes their significant contributions to the survival of Ethiopia's independence between the second half of the 19th century and the second quarter of the 20th century.
1. Battle of Adwa (1896):
The Battle of Adwa was a turning point in Ethiopian history and a testament to the resilience and determination of its people. Emperor Menelik II's forces defeated the Italian army, led by General Oreste Baratieri. This victory ensured Ethiopia's status as one of the few African nations to have successfully resisted European colonization. The Battle of Adwa shook European powers' confidence in their imperial ventures and highlighted Ethiopia's military strength and diplomacy.
2. Battle of Amba Alagi (1895-1896):
Prior to the Battle of Adwa, the Ethiopian resistance forces, under the command of Ras Makonnen, engaged in a series of battles against the Italians at Amba Alagi. Despite initial setbacks, Makonnen's strategy of guerrilla warfare combined with the leadership of generals such as Fitawrari Gebeyehu brought success, forcing the Italians into retreat multiple times. This relentless resistance showcased the determination and bravery of Ethiopian forces.
3. Battle of Maichew (1941):
During World War II, Ethiopia faced another foreign invasion, this time by fascist Italy under Benito Mussolini. The Battle of Maichew, a major confrontation of the East African Campaign, saw Ethiopian forces, aided by the British-led forces, successfully repel the Italians. This victory demonstrated Ethiopia's unwavering stance against fascism and its commitment to retaining its independence.
4. Battle of Maychew (1988-1989):
This particular battle took place during the Ethiopian Civil War, which lasted from 1974 to 1991. The Derg regime, led by Mengistu Haile Mariam, faced a major resistance effort by several Ethiopian rebel groups. Hawzen, the capital of the Tigray Province, was a strategic stronghold for the rebels during the Battle of Maychew. Despite facing heavy artillery and airstrikes, the Ethiopian rebels, primarily the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), managed to weaken the Derg regime significantly. This battle, along with others in the broader civil war, ultimately led to the downfall of the Derg regime and the establishment of a new government.
5. Battle of Adigrat (2020):
In recent history, the Battle of Adigrat symbolized the Ethiopian federal government's struggle against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). This conflict arose due to long-standing political grievances and escalated into a military confrontation. Although the situation remains ongoing, the battle highlights the Ethiopian government's efforts to maintain unity and territorial integrity while grappling with internal challenges.
Conclusion:
Across the period of the late 19th and 20th centuries, Ethiopia has displayed remarkable resilience in defending its independence against foreign invaders. These battles, such as Adwa, Amba Alagi, Maichew, Maychew, and Adigrat, showcased Ethiopia's determination to preserve its sovereignty and made significant contributions to the survival of Ethiopia's independence. The lessons learned from these battles continue to shape Ethiopia's national identity as a country that tenaciously defends its freedom and fosters an unwavering spirit of resistance against external threats.