Who Is Menelik's Attempt To Modernize Ethiopia

Menelik II has been the best emperor Ethiopia has ever seen. Born on August 17th, 1844, he was born in Ankober, Shewa, Ethiopia. When he grew of age, he knew that he was to smart to have his talents go to waste as king, so he had to ensure his righteous spot as emperor. In order to do this, our mighty emperor needed to gain the hand of someone in his predecessor’s, John IV’s, family. So, Menelik married the daughter to John’s son, and when he passed away in 1889, it was Menelik’s time to shine. As leader, Menelik began his conquests to better Ethiopia, adding territory and respect to our even greater nation. Menelik II has fought off European powers, modernized our country, AND added new land for Ethiopia, and is continuing to move strongly ahead in the face of danger. Menelik began his reign with one goal in mind: modernizing Ethiopia. He knew that he had to be one step ahead of the Europeans and either adapt with them, or be taken over. So, Menelik decided that Ethiopia would not be walked over. He began to look to the European countries for inspiration, in order to keep his land from being walked all over. He imported weapons and military officers from Europe in order to prepare his armies for battles

In March of 1896, just 3 weeks ago, the Italians came with intent to conquer his empire. What the Italians did NOT know, though, was that Menelik and his army were prepared for the worst. Using European artillery and resources, the Ethiopians defeated the Italians in the battle of Adwa on March first, 1896. This victory allowed the Ethiopians to secure their independence, and send a message to the Europeans that they would not succumb to their power. This battle also made Ethiopia the only nation in Africa to secure its independence, aside from Liberia. The victorious battle of Adwa, which happened just weeks ago, is just one of the many ways that Menelik has proven to be a wise and intelligent