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EMPEROR ZERA YACOB
Emperor Zera Yacob, who ruled from 1434-68
under the regnal name Kwestantinos I or
Constantine I, was the greatest of the emperors in
medieval Ethiopian history. Born at Telq in the
province of Fatajar (now part of the Oromia Region,
near the Awash River), Zara Yaqob was the
youngest son of Dawit I and his youngest wife, Igzi
Kebra.He’s noted for his reorganization of the
government, literary achievements, piety, and social
reform.
Zera Yacob also occupies a major place in the
Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church for his
expansion and strengthening of the Christian Faith
in Ethiopia. His period was also noted for the
beginning of the first contacts with Christian
Europe. He associated himself very closely to the
Church which he reformed, laying down saint’s days
and days of feast and fasting, and decreeing that
Christians should tattoo themselves with a cross.
During the time of Emperor Zera Yacob literature
flourished. He was a patron of literature and he
himself wrote a number of books on religion, such
as Metsehaf Berhan (Book of Light), the Metsehaf
Milad ("The Book of Nativity") Metsehaf Selassie
("The Book of the Trinity") and compiled the Fetha
Nagast (Law of the Kings) the Law code used in the
courts until 1930. Many books from foreign
languages were also translated into Ge’ez.
While on his throne, Emperor Zera Yacob had a
spiritual life comparable to that in a monastery.
Zera Yacob himself as well established many
churches and monasteries, the most famous being
that of Dabra Metmaq, at Tagulat in Shawa, built in
1441 to commemorate the Egyptian monastery of
the same name which the Muslims had destroyed.
The church and palace at his last capital, Dabra
Berehan, were his most magnificent buildings. He’s
remembered today spiritually with the likes of
Kaleb.
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Muslim leader Ahmad Gran conquers much of Ethiopia.
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Empress Mentewab in the late 18th Century.
Mentewab (means in Amharic, "How beautiful.")
Mentewab's Baptismal name is Walatta Giorgis, which means, "Daughter of Saint George."
Throne name: Berhan Magassa (which means, Glorifier of Light)
From the House of Solomon, her coronation was on December 23, 1730, where she became Empress of
Ethiopia. She was the consort of Emperor Bakaffa. She was the mother of Iyasu II (whose was also known as
Berhan Seged, which means, "He to whom the Light bows") and grandmother of Iyosas I.
Mentewab built several significant structures in Gondar including her own Castle in the Royal Enclosure and a
large banqueting hall as well. Most significantly she built a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary at Qusquam
(named for a site in Egypt where the Holy Family had stayed during their exile) in the mountains outside of
Gondar.
Monastery of Narga Selassie (Rest of the Trinity) is a church on Dek Island. It's the largest island in Northern
Ethiopia. It was constructed by Empress Mentewab in the late 18th Century.
Source: Tsega Tekle Haimanot ~ FB post ~ 10 Oct 2019
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King Sahle Selassie of Shewa
Born in 1795 as the younger son of Meridazmatch Wossen Seged of Shewa, he had outmanuvered his elder
brother Bakure for the princely throne of Shewa upon their father's death in 1813. With the aid of his Abichu
Oromo allies was able to consolidate Shewan rule over the Tulama Oromo and over the districts of Bulga and
Karayu extending his rule into Arsi and Gurage. After ensuring that the Wollo Oromo areas to his north would
act as a buffer between his principality and the Yejju domains of the Imperial Regent Ras Ali II, Sahle Selassie
abandoned his old titles of Ras and Meridazmatch proclaiming himself King of Shewa, Yifat, and the Oromo
and Gurage people. The Emperor in Gondar aquieced to this new title although he had little ability to do
otherwise. It was however significant that the increasingly powerful head of the junior branch of the Imperial
Solomonic dynasty should adopt the title of King at a time that the head of the senior Gondar line (the
Emperor) was little more than a puppet of northern warlords. Sahle Selassie and his heirs would henceforth
be regarded as possible contenders for the Imperial throne itself. This ambition would be realized when his
grandson became Emperor Menelik II.
King Sahle Selassie was close to his mother, Woizero Zenebework, ruler of the districts of Menz and Tegulet,
and she exercised considerable power during his reign and the reign of his son Haile Melekot. He was married
to the equally formidable Woizero Bezabish who ruled over the districts of Yifat and Bulga. The two queens
remained powerful forces in Shewa well into the reign of his successor. He was succeeded as King of Shewa by
his son Haile Melekot. Sahle Selassie, Nigus of Shewa was the grandfather of Emperor Menelik II, and great
grandfather of both Empress Zewditu and Emperor Haile Selassie. He fathered scores of children by many
women, making the House of Shewa the largest of all the branches of the Imperial Solomonic Dynasty.
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Lij Kassa conquers Amhara, Gojjam, Tigray and Shoa.
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Ras Makonnen Wolde Mikael Guddesa of Harrar
Ras Makonnen Wolde Mikael (May 8, 1852 – March 21, 1906) was the father of Emperor Haile Selassie, and
first cousin and close confidante of Emperor Menelik II. He was the grandson of King Sahle Selassie of Shewa
through his mother Tenagnework Sahle Selassie.
Source:
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Ras Kassa becomes Emperor Tewodros II. Emperor Téwodros II (baptized as Sahle Dingil) (c. 1818 – April
13, 1868) was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1855 until his death. Born Kassa Haile Giorgis, but was more
regularly referred to as Kassa Hailu (meaning "restitution" and "His [or the] power"). His rule is often placed
as the beginning of modern Ethiopia, ending the decentralized Zemene Mesafint (Era of the Princes).
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H.I.H ALEMAYEHU TEWODROS
Dejazmatch Alemayehu Tewodros, often referred to as HIH Prince Alemayehu or Alamayou of Ethiopia (23
April 1861 – 14 November 1879) was the son of Emperor Tewodros II of Ethiopia. Emperor Tewodros II
committed suicide after his defeat by the British, led by Sir Robert Napier, at the Battle of Magdala in 1868.
Alemayehu's mother was Empress Tiruwork Wube.
The young prince was taken to Britain, under the care of Captain Tristram Speedy. The Empress Tiruwork had
intended to travel to Britain with her son following the death of her husband, but died on the way to the coast
leaving Alemayehu an orphan. Initially, Empress Tiruwork had resisted Captain Speedy's efforts to be named
the child's guardian, and had even asked the commander of the British forces, Lord Napier, to keep Speedy
away from her child and herself. After the death of the Empress however, Napier allowed Speedy to assume
the role of caretaker. Upon the arrival of the little Prince's party in Alexandria however, Speedy dismissed the
entire Ethiopian entourage of the Prince much to their distress and they returned to Ethiopia.
While staying at Speedy's home on the Isle of Wight he was introduced to Queen Victoria at her home at
Osborne House. She took a great interest in his life and education. Alamayehu spent some time in India with
Speedy and his wife, but the government decided he should be educated in England and he was sent to
Cheltenham to be educated under the care of Thomas Jex-Blake, principal of Cheltenham College. He moved to
Rugby School with Jex-Blake in 1875, where one of his tutors was Cyril Ransome (the future father of Arthur
Ransome). In 1878 he joined the officers' training school at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, but he was
not happy there and the following year went to Far Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, to stay with his old
tutor Cyril Ransome. Within a week he had contracted pleurisy and died after six weeks of illness, despite the
attentions of Dr Clifford Allbutt of Leeds and other respected consultants.
Queen Victoria mentioned the death of the young prince in her diary, saying what a good and kind boy he had
been and how sad it was that he should die so far from his family. She also mentioned how very unhappy the
prince had been, and how conscious he was of people staring at him because of his colour.
Queen Victoria arranged for Alamayehu to be buried at Windsor Castle. The funeral took place on 21
November 1879, in the presence of Cyril Ransome, Chancellor of the Exchequer Stafford Northcote, General
Napier, and Captain Speedy. A brass plaque in the nave of St George's chapel commemorates him and bears
the words "I was a stranger and ye took me in", but Alamayehu's body is buried in a brick vault outside the
chapel. Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia arranged for second plaque commemorating the Prince to be
placed in the chapel as well.
In 2007, the Ethiopian government requested the return of Alemayehu's remains for reburial in Ethiopia.
Source: Tsega Tekle Haimanot FB Post ~ 01-04-2019
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Emperor Tewodros II defeated by a British expeditionary force and commits suicide to avoid capture.
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Tigrayan chieftain becomes Yohannes IV.
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Yohannes IV killed while fighting Mahdist forces and is succeeded by the king of Shoa, who becomes Emperor
Menelik II.
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Menelik signs a bilateral friendship treaty with Italy at Wuchale which Italy interprets as giving it a
protectorate over Ethiopia. Ethiopia rejects this interpretation, later renounces the treaty and repays a loan.
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Addis Ababa becomes Ethiopia's capital.
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Her Imperial Majesty Empress Menen Asfaw "Itege Menen" born 3rd April 1891 (25th Megabit 1883)
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July 23, 1892 (16 Hamle 1884) - Birthdate of Haile Selassie I as Ledj Tafari Makonnen in Ejarsa Goro in
Harar, Ethiopia. Tafari is the son of Ras Makonnen, a Shoa Amharan nobel, who was married to an Oromo,
Waziero Yashimabet, who died two years after the birth of Ledj Tafari. Negus Ras Tafari Makonnen was
given his religious/spiritual name, Haile Selassie I (Might of the Trinity) upon his transfiguration on
November 2, 1930.
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The Battle Of Adowa | Emperor Menelik II,
Mobilization Proclamation
"Enemies have now come upon us to ruin our
country ......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"
#Ameyn.
Source: I-Ras Black E'Dd ~ FB post ~ 28 Feb 2020
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THE POWER OF PRAYER AND HOW RAIN BECAME A HERO OF THE BATTLE OF ADWA
Ethiopians did not just rely in their age old patriotism and bravery that led to the defeat of the formidable
Italian army at Adwa on March 1, 1896. The Ethiopian army was fortified with The Ark, accompanied by
Tabots and clergy, and its fighters carrying their holy books and all from royal and aristocratic generals to
peasant fighters praying for Devine intervention on their behalf. Emperor Menelik, Itege Taytu and their
entourage said their final prayers at Kidus Giorgis church. Their prayers were not in vain.
On February 29, 1896, as the Italians matched towards Adwa there was an unseasonable downpour that
turned their path into a miserable muddy mess. Their heavy coats soaked and their boots filling with water
which they had to remove and pour from time to time led into great confusion and disorganization. The
thunder from the angry skies led to their scared animals running away. Ethiopian double agents like Bashay
Aw'alom on whom they relied as guides used the confusion created by the downpour to mislead and lead
them in pointless circles. To the hardened Ethiopians who have already travelled for hundreds of miles
through parched land the rain was a relief and a blessing. Many raised their hands and praised the merciful
God of Ethiopia for letting them know he had not forgotten them.
This is how the patriotic General Rain became an unsung hero who fought with us at Adwa. Blessed be the
name of our Lord!
Credit to doc Abebe Haregewoin
Source: I-Ras Black E'Dd ~ FB post ~ 27 Feb 2020
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Menelik II leads Ethiopians in victory over the
Italian forces, at Adwa; treaty of Wuchale annulled;
Italy recognises Ethiopia's independence but
retains control over Eritrea.
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Adwa Victory
"Go ahead with your threat, do it even in a week’s time.
No one here is afraid of your threats. We will slaughter
those who come to invade us. There is no Ethiopian
who will not plant his feet in the sand and face death to
save his country. To shed one’s blood and lose one’s life
for the motherland is not death, it is an honor!…Do not
even waste your time here. Go on with your war. We will
wait you eagerly ... " ~ Empress Taytu Betul
Ethiopia never colonized
Source: African Diaspora ~ FB post ~ 1 Mar 2020
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Menelik II defeats the Italians and signs the Treaty of Addis Ababa
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DR. JOSEPH-VITALIEN:
Born in Guadeloupe served Ethiopia faithfully.
Landing in Harar in 1902 to assist Ras Makonnen
Wolde Micheal in erecting a hospital in his
province. During his two-years in Harar, he was also
a tutor to Lij Tafari Makonnen.
Source: Camara Nicholes ~ FB post ~ 28 Feb 2020
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Ras Makonnen and his son.
(This photograph, taken by Author, was the last
shortly before the Ras' death.)
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Tafari Makonnen assigned first military title
"Dejazmach" (keeper of 'the Gate') by his father Ras
Makonnen. "Keeper of the Gate" is similar to the
title of "Count" in Western terms.
*****
Often this day (1st November) is not given much
attention, but it's an important one which should be
also remembered and honored by those who claim
to follow HIM.
This year (2017) is to celebrate the 112th
anniversary of the 'Dejazmatch appointment' from
Lij Tafari Makonnen (Qedamawi Haile Selassie) by
H.H. Ras Makonnen Wolde Mikael.
(Dejazmatch means literally "Commander of the
Gate")
Source: Joannes Fey ~ FB Post 10-28-2017
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(13 Magabit 1898) - Tafari's Father, Ras Makonnen ascension
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Tafari appointed position of Dejazmach
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Cornerstone Of Railway Terminal - 1908 (HIM ~ Selected Speeches ~ Chapter XII)
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Dejazmach Tafari appointed (Governor) of his home province of Harar
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Dej Tafari marries Woizero Menen Asfaw
(grand-daughter of Ras Michael)
Empress Menen is the only Empress to have been
crowned on the same day, during the same
ceremony, with the Emperor. An all-night service
was held in the St. George cathedral (above) on the
eve of the coronation. Negus Ras Tafari and his wife
Woizero Menen prayed in unison with richly
costumed priests and deacons, who danced,
chanted and beat drums and prayer sticks in time
with the music of harps, lyres, tambourines,
cymbals and the one-stringed masanko.
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Menelik II's ascension and is succeeded by his grandson, Lij Iyasu, who's reign was cut short when Lij Iyasu
adopted Islam as his personal religion with intentions to make Islam the national religion of Ethiopia. This
was met with severe opposition and mutual consensus from the long-standing nobles and royal advisors on
replacing Lij Iyasu with well-respected and qualified, Tafari Makonnen.
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Tafari Makonnen is made Regent, given title of
"Ras", and ascended to Heir to the Solomonic
Throne. Ras Tafari was advisor to Empress Zewditu
and embarked on a program to modernize Ethiopia
by building schools, hospitals, and modernizing the
army; while establishing relationships with other
countries.
The 101st Anniversary (09/27/2017)
On the 27th September 1916 (17th Mäskäräm
1909) Archbishop Abuna Mattewos, Etchäge Waldä
Giyorgis with the priests and the nobles with the
army appointed Dejazmatch Tafari Makonnen; Ras
Crown Prince and Regent Plenipotentiary of the
Imperial Ethiopian Empire.
Source: The Church of Haile Selassie Inc.
Ourselves, by virtue of Our descent from the Queen of
Sheba and King Solomon, ever since We accepted in
trust, in 1909 (1916), first the regency of the
Ethiopian realm and later the Imperial dignity, right
up to the present, We have set out to the best of Our
ability to improve, gradually, internal administration
by introducing into the country western modes of
civilization through which Our people may attain a
higher level; hence Our conscience does not rebuke
Us. The Autobiography of Emperor Haile Sellassie I
(volume 1)
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COMING OUT OF THE MOUTH OF RASTAFARI:
On the 17th day of Maskaram 1909 (27th Sept. 1916), on the day of the great feast of Masqal, it was arranged
that the nobles with the army, and the Archbishop Abuna Mattewos, and the Etchage Walda Giyorgis with the
priests, should assemble at a prepared place within the precincts of the Palace; and when they had all arrived
and taken their seat according to their rank, the following indictment against Ledj Iyasu, which had been
secretly prepared, was read out:
'The Christian faith, which our fathers had hitherto carefully retained by fighting for their faith with the
Muslims and by shedding their blood, Ledj Iyasu exchanged for the Muslim religion and aroused commotion
in our midst; in order to exterminate us by mutual fighting he has converted to Islam and, therefore, we shall
henceforth not submit to him; we shall not place a Muslim king on the throne of a Christian king; we have
ample proof of his conversion to Islam:
(1) He married four wives claiming: "the Qur'an permits it to me". Of these wives one is the daughter of Abba
Jiffar of the Jimma nobility; the second is the daughter of Hajj Abdullahi of the Harar nobility; the third is the
daughter of Abu Bakr of the Adal nobility; the father of the fourth, Dejatch Djote, became a Christian and
baptized his daughter; while she lived under her baptismal name Askala Maryam, it was to Dejatch Djote's
daughter that he (Ledj Iyasu) later on, after his conversion to Islam, gave the Muslim woman's name of
Momina.
(2) He built a mosque at Jijjiga with government funds and gave it to the Muslims.
(3) At that time he sent to Mahazar Bey, the foreign [Turkish] consul resident at Addis Ababa—as he was
celebrating the Ramadan feast—our Ethiopian flag (on which there was written "The Lion of the Tribe of
Judah has prevailed" and adorned with the sign of the Cross) on which he had caused to be written the
following words (in Arabic): "There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah".
(4) He wore Somali Muslim clothes and the Muslim turban, held the Islamic rosary, and was seen to prostrate
himself in the mosque.
(5) He was seen praying and reading the Qur'an having had it transcribed in Amharic
characters.
(6) On the headgear of his special guards he had embroidered the legend "there is no god but Allah".
(7) H.H. Ras Makonnen had built a church at Harar and had made the area adjoining the church into a dwelling
for the clergy, giving the Muslims a place in exchange; then, 32 years later, he (Ledj Iyasu) expelled the clergy
and restored it to the Muslims.
(8) When a girl was born to him he saw to it that she would grow up learning the Muslim religion, and he gave
her to the Muslim Madame Hanafi and said: "Bring her up on my behalf".
(9) He despised the descent of Menelik II, which comes direct from Menelik I, and claimed to be descended
from the Prophet Muhammad; assembling the great Muslim sheikhs he spent the day convincing them of his
genealogical calculations.
(10) The day on which our great king, Emperor Menelik, who had bequeathed him the throne, died, instead of
mourning and of arranging lamentations he went out horse-riding to Jan-Meda and spent the day playing
combat-games. He forbade Menelik's body to be buried with dignity and thus it has remained up to now. We
possess a great deal of further similar proof (against Ledj Iyasu).
Therefore, having deposed him (Ledj Iyasu), we have placed on the throne Wayzaro Zawditu, Emperor
Menelik's daughter. We have appointe Dejazmatch Tafari, the son of H.H. Ras Makonnen, Crown Prince, with
the rank of Ras, and Regent of the Empire.'
When the reading of this proclamation was concluded, all those assembled said with one voice: 'We accept
gladly, hence let it be carried out with success.' The Archbishop, Abuna Mattewos, and the Etchage Walda
Giyorgis spoke the following final words: 'Ledj Iyasu has repudiated the Christian religion and, because he has
been converted to the Islamic faith, we have excommunicated him; you will be excommunicated if henceforth
you follow Ledj Iyasu and submit to him—instead of living strong in the Orthodox faith and watchful of the
freedom of your government'.
Afterwards the proclamation was issued by which the Throne and the Crown went to Queen Zawditu, while
the succession to the Throne and the Regency Plenipotentiary went to me; the text of the proclamation was
then transmitted by telephone to the princes and nobles and all the provincial governors in the whole of
Ethiopia.
Source: HIM Haile Selassie I,Negus Negust, Earth rightfull ruler ~ FB post ~ 27 Sep 2019
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The 101st Anniversary of the Battle of Segale 1916.
One battle to the Throne.
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THE BATTLE OF SEGALE (October 27th 1916)
[The indictment against Lij Iyasu, which was read out:
'The Christian faith, which our fathers had hitherto carefully retained by fighting for their faith with the
Muslims and by shedding their blood, Lij Iyasu exchanged for the Muslim religion and aroused commotion in
our midst; in order to exterminate us by mutual fighting he has converted to Islam and therefore, we shall
henceforth not submit to him; we shall not place a Muslim king on the throne of a Christian king; we have
ample proof of his conversion to Islam:
(1) He married four wives claiming: "the Qur'an permits it to me". Of these wives one is the daughter of Abba
Jifar of the Jimma nobility; the second is the daughter of Hajj Abdullahi of the Harar nobility; the third is the
daughter of Abu Bakr of the Adal nobility; the father of the fourth, Dejatch Djote, became a Christian and
baptized his daughter; while she lived under her baptismal name Askala Maryam, it was to Dejatch Djote's
daughter that he (Lij Iyasu) later on, after his conversion to Islam, gave the Muslim woman's name of Momina.
(2) He built a mosque at Jijijiga with government funds and gave it to the Muslims.
(3) At that time he sent to Mahazar Bey, the foreigner [Turkish] consul resident at Addis Ababa - as he was
celebrating the Ramadan Feast - Our Ethiopian flag (on which there was written "The Lion of the Tribe of
Judah hath prevailed (Moa Anbessa Ze Imnegede Yehudah) and adorned with the sign of the Cross) on which
he had caused to be written the following words ( in Arabic): "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is
the messenger of Allah".
(4) He wore Somali Muslim clothes and the Muslim Turban, held the Islamic rosary, and was seen to prostate
himself in the mosque.
(5) He was seen praying and reading the Qur'an having it transcribed in Amharic characters.
(6) On the headgear of his special guards he had embroidered the legend, "there is no God but Allah"
(7) H.H. Ras Makonnen had built a church into a dwelling for the clergy, giving the Muslims a place in
exchange; then 32 years later he ( Lij Iyasu) expelled the clergy and restored it to the Muslims.
(8) When a girl was born to him he saw to it that she would grow up learning the Muslim religion, and gave
her to the Muslim Madame Hanafi and said: "Bring her up on my behalf."
(9) He despised the descent of Menelik II, which comes direct from Menelik I, and claimed to be descended
from the Prophet Muhammad: assembling the great Muslim sheikhs he spent the day convincing them of his
genealogical calculations.
(10) The day on which our great king, Emperor Menelik, who had bequeathed him the throne, died, instead of
mourning and of arranging lamentations he went out horse-riding to Jan Meda and spent the day playing
combat games. He forbade Menelik's body to be buried with dignity and thus it has similar proof (against Lij
Iyasu)
Therefore having deposed him (Lij Iyasu), we have placed on the throne Wayzaro Zawditu, Emperor
Menelik's daughter. We have appointed Dejazmatch Tafari, the son of H.H. Ras Makonnen, Crown Prince, with
the rank of Ras, and Regent of the Empire.']
THE BATTLE OF SEGALE
The Battle of Segale, fought on 27 October 1916, was a victory for the supporters of Empress Zawditu over
those of Iyasu V. Henze states that "Segale was Ethiopia's greatest battle since Adwa" (1896).
Background
The nobility of Ethiopia had grown uneasy with the rule of Iyasu V. At last, when Iyasu failed to observe the
important religious holiday of Meskel in the capital Addis Ababa, instead he remained in the predominantly
Moslem city of Harar, they decided to strike. A number of nobles met 17 days later on 27 September, and
convinced Abuna Mattewos to excommunicate Iyasu on the accusation that he converted to Islam, then
announced on the steps of the Palace that Iyasu had been deposed in favor of Empress Zawditu.
The plotters had sent orders to Harar that Iyasu would be arrested, which went astray. Sources dispute
exactly what Lij Iyasu's did next. Bahru Zewde states that Iyasu started to march on Addis Ababa, but his
advance was blocked at Mieso by 15,000 soldiers and he fled into the Afar desert. Harold Marcus, drawing on
the reports filed by the European diplomats, states that instead Lij Iyasu had sent one force towards the
capital under Dejazmach Gebre, and another, raised from loyal Afars and Somalis, to secure Dire Dawa; the
Dejazmach went over to the opposing army and the Afars and Somalis deserted before reaching the city, and
Iyasu fled with his bodyguard to Jijiga. Aleqa Gebre Igziabiher Elyas's narrative supports Marcus in that Iyasu
fled to the desert where his Afar supporters helped him. In either case, Harar failed him as a base of support
and he took refuge in the desert.
Battle
His father and most important supporter, Negus Mikael of Wollo, was slow to march south upon the capital
and restore Iyasu to the throne, not moving until the middle of October. Yet, when he did, the Negus crushed
the troops sent against him. On 18 October, Negus Mikael's troops defeated an advance force of 11,000 men in
Menz and killed their leader, Ras Lul Seged. Under the command of the regent Ras Tafari (the future Emperor
Haile Selassie) and Fitawrari Habte Giyorgis, a force estimated to number between 25,000 and 35,000
marched north to do battle and the two armies came to face each other at Segale on the 22nd.
Afterwards, the then Ras Tafari stated that because "bloodshed among Ethiopians themselves is extremely
saddening, I arranged that monks from the monasteries of Debre Libanos and Zequala ... should come with
their crosses to request Negus Mikael to go back to Wollo without making war." Negus Mikael is said to have
simply arrested these emissaries, ignoring their message.
Negus Mikael opened the battle early in the morning, but his artillery was put out of commission by his
opponent and his machine-gunners ran out of ammunition. Aleqa Gebre-Igziabiher Elyas, drawing from
eyewitness accounts, describes the battle opening with a charge of Negus Mikael's infantry and cavalry.
However, the Shewan troops had been trained to fire their rifles in rows and from the prone position, allowing
them to fire in quick succession "and felled them like leaves." Then the Shewans attacked, "and they pursued
the army of Wello and took captives. And particularly the Shewan cavalry went from valley to valley" and
overran Negus Mikael's camp." At 3:25 pm, one of the Shewan officers telephoned to the capital that they had
won the battle. "The dead are very numerous on both sides." Aleqa Gebre-Igziabiher Elyas explains one cause
for this bloodshed was that the two sides did not differ in dress or insignia, and could only distinguish each
other by their passwords, which were not always well known to the soldiers. Bahru Zewde succinctly
comments: "The Wallo forces were defeated. Negus Mikael was captured. The coup of 27 September was now
sanctioned by blood."
Aftermath
Negus Mikael defended himself in his corral until his defeat was undeniable, when he surrendered. Amnesty
was offered to the soldiers from the losing side, provided that they swear loyalty to the new Empress.
However, two of Negus Mikael's chief lieutenants escaped the battle unvanquished: Ras Yimer, who managed
to rally some of the defeated army and lead them to Dessie; and Fitawrari Sirah Bizu, who discarded his
weapons and battle-dress and slipped from the battlefield in the garb of a sick priest with a single servant, and
met up with Ras Yimer in Dessie. Dejazmach Gebre Igziabiher who had been a lukewarm supporter of Negus
Mikael sat out the battle, but when the Negus surrendered and he attempted to flee back to Welo, the
peasants of Aliyu Amba ambushed and killed him.
As for the deposed Lij Iyasu, he had just reached Ankober by the time the battle ended; he led his small army
of 6,000 into the desert back to Dessie, arriving there 8 November and joining with Ras Yimer and Fitawrari
Sirah Bizu. When the Imperial army reached that town 10 December, he fled further north to the old
stronghold of Amba Mariam, further away from the center of power.
Source: Tsega Tekle Haimanot FB Post ~ 10-27-2018
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Newly Discovered Documents Reveal, Ras
Tafari Crowned 'Lord of Lords' in 1917
rastafaricoalition.org
Let’s be clear: Haile Selassie I is the only person in the
history of the world to hold the complete appellation
of God and to fulfill all of the prophecies of the Lord.
He will be remembered in one context only and that is
as the Highest himself, not as simply a Ethiopian
monarch or a shrewd politician. Many people can call
themselves God but only the true God can fulfill
prophecy.
Source: Omar Tobijah ~ FB post 5 Oct 2019
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1st Coronation as #Ras
(Ras of Rases / Lord Of Lords/ Regent) February
11th 1917
His Imperial Highness #RasTafariMakonnen Heir
Apparent and Regent to the Empire of Ethiopia.
Source: Negus Kamaal Atu ~ FB post ~ 7 Oct 2019
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Ethiopia, represented by Regent Ras Tafari, becomes a member of the League of Nations (An international
organization formed in 1920 to promote peace and co-operation between countries).
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Your Highness’ presence amongst us is apt to
strengthen and to renew those memories of 1600
years. Two Greeks, the sons of Meropius the
merchant, Frumentius and Aedesius, were taken
prisoner at the Ethiopian seaboard and thus
entered the country. They founded the Church of
Ethiopia by teaching the country’s inhabitants and
by becoming apostles of the faith.Your Highness,
the affection which binds the two countries
together began at that time. In the year 325
Athanasius, the great bishop of Christian Greece,
bestowed at Alexandria the name of founder of the
Church of Ethiopia upon Frumentius and did so
with great glory. And he also anointed him bishop
of the Ethiopian Church. We are aware that Ethiopia’
s success in guarding her independence at all times
arises from the mountains which have been given to
her by nature and which separate her from all the
other African countries. It is proper to say that
Ethiopia has been the bastion of Christianity for
more than a millennium among the savages and
pagans in the arid desert. Homer said of the
Ethiopians that they excelled above others.
Diodorus speaks of their virtue. He admires their
fight for their freedom.
At the time of Alexander the Great and his heirs
Greek culture had entered Ethiopia and had opened
a new road of civilization. It left written monuments
(a map) which demonstrate its progress. The
Ptolemies and the Byzantine kings desired the
Ethiopian people to establish a basis and to extend
their rule up to the Red Sea. When Byzantium
fought with the Persians, it threw into the battle the
might of the Ethiopians. Your Highness' country was
a crossroads and meeting point of the civilized
nations in the Mediterranean and Indian areas.
Since the Greeks were at that time held in great
honour in Ethiopia, the Ethiopian kings are said to
have known the Greek language.... Monsieur Dimetri
Papapouleas
**The Regent of Ethiopia RasTeferi in Greece 1924**
Source: Haile Iyesus FB Post ~ 10-11-2017 ~
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?
fbid=10155111946582613&set=a327041832612.
152755.55879261 &type=3&theater&ifg=1
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Afterwards, on Thursday, 8th Miyazya 1916 (16th
April 1924), We set out from Addis Ababa and went
down to Jibuti. Here are the names of the princes
and nobles to whom it had been granted to
accompany Us:
Ras Haylu Takla Haymanot, Ras Seyum Mangasha,
Dejazmatch Nadaw Abba Wallo, Dejazmatch
Gassasa Walda Hanna, Dejazmatch Gabra Sellasse
Barya Gaber, Dejazmatch Mullugeta Yegazu,
Dejazmatch Hayla Sellasse Abaynah, Ligaba Wadaje
Webe, Blatta Heruy Walda Sellasse, Ledj Makonnen
Endalkatchaw, Dejazmatch Wand Bawassan Kassa,
Ato Sahle Tsadalu.
Source: Ras Dread Selassie I ~ FB post ~ 16 Apr 2020
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Ras Tafari Makonnen visits Rome, Paris, and London
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Opens Postal Head Office - 1927 (HIM ~ Selected Speeches ~ Chapter XII)
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H.I.H. EMPRESS-MENEN SPEAKS:
Sept. 13, 1928. Empress Menen disclosed the aggression to World Women Association and appealed to all
world nation states.
"I am pleased to present my speech to all world women. When Italy conquered our people and country the
World Women Association supported us to settle peace and freedom. We are very happy to express our deep
feeling for the association.
When I am speaking now in order to be understood to all countries my daughter princess Tsehaye translated
my speech into English language.
Princess Tsehaye made the speech as follows. “During this time Italy invaded us unjustly, causing great
difficulties and world women should let their voice be heard.
Even though world women are living in different countries with different climates, all women are interrelated
with the same will and objectives.
War is distress and trouble for mankind. For all world women in different countries, different races, and
religions, the act of violence and war victimized their husbands, brothers and children. War is a destruction of
the family and can make people immigrants. So women are against war."
Source: Camara Nicholes ~ FB post ~ 24 Feb 2020
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On September 13, 1928, Itegue Menen gave a speech to the World Women’s Association on Mussolini's fascist
Italy's plans to invade Ethiopia:
"We are indeed glad for this evening which has caused our voice to be heard by all women throughout the
world. Regardless of the different climate they live in, women in this world are connected and have the same
desire in maintaining world peace and love. Obviously, war is one of the major problems which bring disaster
in the life of mankind. In spite of the difference of color, race, creed and religion between women in this world,
they all hate war because the fruit of war is nothing but disaster. War exterminates their beloved husbands,
their brothers and their children. It destroys and eliminates their families. At this hour, and such a tragic and
sad period where aggressors have planned a very heavy war upon our lives ,we would like to bring this to the
attention of all women throughout the world that it is their duty to voice and express solidarity against such
acts."
Source: Ato K. D. Roberts ~ FB post ~ 25 Mar 2020
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Utterance of Her Imperial Majesty Empress Menen Asfaw, on September 13th 1928, Her Majesty made a
speech at the World Womens Association and reasoned with them of the aggression Italy had on Ethiopia. I
have translated part of her speech from Amharic...
"War is a human tragedy and problem. Although the women of the world live in different countries with
different races and religions, their war actions are destroying their husbands, brothers, sons, families and all
living beings, as women we are against war.
We know that all Italian mothers and barren women can worry about the war because war is good
for nothing. Therefore, all women in the world must stop the war before it causes problems and stress. They
must cooperate in a vote to end the war before bloodshed on both sides.
Ethiopia does not want violence to resolve conflicts. Her ambition is to maintain consensus. Ethiopia tried to
resolve the conflict in the first months. Ethiopia is doing the best it can, so we are mentally and
spiritually free. Any foreigners who come to work diligently and fairly will welcome Ethiopians. They have a
natural hospitality to foreigners in the history of the world. But a neighbouring country of Ethiopia is trying to
control it and buy it. Ethiopia has always been the son of the unity line, while the rival nation looks to its own
advantage. The enemy deployed the army to kill our enemies, brothers and children, and encamped around
our country.
Ethiopians work together and pray together, celebrating the love and glory of the Almighty, but the enemy is
trying to modernize our family by destroying the nation's wealth. We pray to the Almighty that we will not
encounter such anguish and calamity if the transformation of modernity has caused such great destruction.
Therefore, a union formed to form a union with women in the world must contribute to the unification and
stability of Ethiopia."
Source: Reginald Cunnings ~ FB post ~ 29 May 2020
Give thanks unto jYah for life, jYah blessings love and peace unto ini ❤️��❤️"
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(27 Meskarem 1921) - Regent Ras Tafari Makonnen ascends to the office of King and assumes the title
Negus and crowned Negus Ras Tafari.
***This day in Ethiopian history, October 7, 1928: The crowning of Ras Teferi Makonnen as Negus Teferi
Makonnen***
It would be the 1st time in Ethiopia's history that a King ruled alongside a ruling Monarch; who in this case
was Empress Zaditu, daughter of Emperor Menelik II. Due to Ras Teferi's knowledge of foreign affairs, and
understanding of the changing times, certain of the nobles and military decided that it would be in Ethiopia's
best interest to have H.R.H. Ras Teferi rule alongside Her Imperial Majesty.
Blessed Sabbath in the name of H.I.M. Qedamawi Haile Selassie and Empress Itege Menen !
Blessed 89th Anniversary (as of 07-Oct-2017) of the Crowning of H.H. Crown Prince Regent , known at that
time as Ras Tafari Makonnen and Princess Woizero Menen . 7th Oct 1928.
Taken from the Autobiography of Emperor Haile Selassie I.
CHAPTER 24
About Our receiving the dignity of kingship without ceasing to be Heir Apparent.
....Subsequently, the ministers and nobles living at Addis Ababa as well as the army commanders and all men
holding office reached agreement unanimously and declared: ‘Worthless common people rise up from time to
time against our Crown Prince and create upheaval; perhaps on some future occasion, when similar
disturbances arise, we may fail to prevent internal bloodshed; it is, therefore, necessary to think of means of
restraining such commotion. For this purpose it is best to act as follows: Empress Zawditu should have solely
the honour of the Crown and the Throne—as was established when first she succeeded to the reign, leaving
the task of government entirely to the Crown Prince, while the latter should carry out on his sole authority the
whole business of government (as was defined and initiated on 17th Maskaram 1909 = 27th September
1916), without consulting the Empress and without obtaining her permission. In order that his authority
should possess force and be respected, it would be best for us to arrange that he should attain the dignity of
Kingship.' Once they had decided this, they assembled in the wide square within the palace precincts and
approached Empress Zawditu in writing: ‘May it please you to have H.H. Crown Prince Tafari proclaimed King
and have him carry out, on his sole authority, any government business without having to consult anyone.'
Empress Zawditu summoned her special counsellors, and when they proffered her advice it seemed to them
an extremely difficult matter. In truth, I myself felt it to be very difficult. For, once proclaimed King of some
large part of Ethiopia, I could not go there or else the Empress would need another Regent. As King I could
scarcely reside at Addis Ababa, for it was not customary for two Kings to reside in one city. She therefore sent
word to them to be given time in which to ponder the matter.
This proposal by the people was awkward not only for Empress Zawditu but even for myself. I therefore
summoned three men from the assembled nobles and dispatched them to the people with this message: ‘It
would be good if the idea which you have had that the work of government be accomplished by one man's
sole and undivided design could be carried out, but it would be as well if the proposal as regards the Kingship
were not raised. Arrange for this matter to be dropped, for it might appear that I had incited you in the desire
to become King; it is God alone who knows that I am not involved in this affair but people do not know.' They
sent word back to Us: ‘We cannot go back on it, for the reason we have acted was that we were mindful of the
honour of our realm and the benefit and peace of the people—without favouring anyone.' We therefore kept
quiet.
Later on, when they saw the reply which had reached them from Empress Zawditu asking for time to ponder
the matter, they presented to her a further written submission which all of them signed and sealed: The fact
that Empress Zawditu was asking for time to think about it was simply to obtain time in order to issue a
refusal after consultation with her friends who follow her own way of thinking and who do not like modern
conditions; or to bring about, on these grounds, a situation in which revolution and civil war would be
created. 'However that may be’, their submission ran, ‘we are determined to do what is necessary, being
assembled here and not intending to disperse unless you give us the reply today.'
Moreover, the people of the city did not know the true reason why the ministers, nobles, and army
commanders had assembled in the palace grounds, and it needed very little for them to start a revolution.
Empress Zawditu caused the declaration which had been presented to her with signatures and seals, to be
read; and, when she had understood it, she thought it would be preferable to accept their counsel in order to
avoid bloodshed. She then directed that the following written announcement be read out to them: 'It is my
wish that the Crown Prince be crowned as King on a date determined by you on the basis of the advice
tendered by you.' Consequently security and calm returned. Thereupon they pushed each other forward
penetrating as far as the internal courtyard and clapped hands with joy. Then they conveyed their thanks
saying: ‘Long live H.M. the Empress! May Ethiopia live for ever.' They then went back to their homes.
The next morning they assembled once more and claimed that it would be better for this affair of the Kingship
to be accomplished within three days, lest second thoughts should ruin this matter if further delay were to
occur. We convinced them, however, of the impossibility of a thing like Kingship being carried out within two
or three days and, furthermore, of the need to inform each of the governments of our neighbours, so that their
representatives might come and take part in our joy. It was, therefore, decided that the coronation should
take place one month hence, on 27th Maskaram 1921 (= 7th October 1928).
As there was rejoicing about Empress Zawditu’s approval that We were to be proclaimed King, and since the
British, French, and Italians, who possess colonies in our neighbourhood, were delighted, the British
Government dispatched to Addis Ababa the Governor of Berbera, Mr. Kittermaster, the French Government
sent the Governor of Jibuti, M. Chapon Baissac, and the Italian Government the Governor of Eritrea, Signor
Corrado Zoli.
When everything that was required for this festival of Kingship had been prepared, the whole great ceremony
which is enacted for crowning a King of the Ethiopian Empire took place on 27th Maskaram 1921 (= 7th
October 1928); We received the crown from the hands of Empress Zawditu, and the festive day passed off
with dignity .
Psalms for the Sabbath :
2, 20 , 48, 92, 110, 116, 149.
Act ch 2 .
Rastafari peace and luv . More blessings and guidance through the Sabbath . Trod with luv and righteousness .
Source: Nyahbinghi Rastafari ~ FB Post 10-07-2017
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91 years ago (from today - Oct 7, 2019) on this day, October 7th, 1928 G.C./ Meskerem 27, 1921 E.C., Teferi
Mekonnen was crowned Negus(King).
***Note: The Crowning of Ras Teferi Mekonnen as Negus(King) occurred two years prior to him ascending the
Imperial Throne as Negusa Nagast(King of Kings/Emperor) Haile
Selassie I on Tekemt 23, 1923 E.C. / November 2, 1930 G.C.
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Ethiopian Royalty ~ 1928
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Her Royal Highness Zewditu
Queen of the Kings of Abyssinia
Empress of Ethiopia
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Negus RasTafari and Empress Zewditu
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NEGUS TAFARI PREVAILS
The Abuna of Ethiopia signed in 1929 a document proclaiming Negus Tafari Makonnen a devout Son of the
Ancient Church of Ethiopia and excommunicated all those who dared to challenge him.
The six Bishops of Ethiopia sent out encyclicals to their flocks hailing Ras Tafari as a truly Christian King.
These documents the Negus Ras Tafari took away to his private printing press where he gad them reproduced
as leaflets,thousands were reproduced.
In March 28 ,1930 Ras Gugsa moved with a force of some 38,000 tribesmen. The Negus Tafari was far more
advanced than Gugsas and so was his Military machine. The Negus had an Air Force he had an Air courier ,he
was in constant contact..
Miraculously, one day before Gugsa moved his troops , a foreign plane had suddenly appeared and landed on
a field outside the capital where the Negus kept his planes, this was against Ethiopian Laws. In the plane was
a Frenchman, his daughter and his wife. They were on a Safari across Africa and was flying over Ethiopia.
Their plane was impounded and they were placed under arrest. The Negus Ras Tafari soon heard about them
and sent for them at once and told them that he would release their plane and give them their freedom on the
condition that they fly North the following day and scatter leaflets over some tribes who were in rebellion.
At dawn the next day A French man who were in the service of the Negus small Air Force took off with the
crew,he was to distribute the leaflets at certain areas. The plane soon swooped low over the trembling
Ethiopians and leaflets flooded the scared soldiers. The leaflets were prints from the declaration from the
Abuna of Ethiopia hailing Ras Tafari as a true Son of the Church. Some papers showed the excommunication
of Ras Gugsa as a traitor to the Empress His Regent and His religion,A third batch of leaflets warned the
Tribalists that if they did not desert,the bird in the sky now circling above would return and deal death to
them.
The battle began on March 31,1930 it did not last long as many of the tribes men had deserted, Ras Hailu and
his men had completely withdrawn. At 9 A,M two planes from the Negus Air Force roared out of the sky upon
Gugsa's camp dropping small bombs among the terrified soldiers. The planes then scattered hand grenades.
There was more noise, fire and flames than actual damage. Ras Mulugeta and the Shoan army then fell upon
the rebels running them down with machine gun fire and artillery then advancing.
Ras Gugsa and his Body Guards held out for a little while but eventually he was shot. The Empress guessed,
for she heard the booming of the Victory drums and the firing of Gun Salute.
The confirmation that Ras Gugsa was dead was too much for her, twenty four hours later the Empress of
Ethiopia Zauditu was dead, Feudal Ethiopia had died. Ethiopia like a Phoenix was rising the Negus to become
Emperor the Emperor of Aethiopia a cosmic figure.
Source: Haile Selassie Institute's ~ FB post ~ 26 Aug 2019
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The above chronology compiled by Malchijah, please contact me for updates.
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Nothing is hidden from God's view!...
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Copyright © 2011-2020 UMOJA Connection, Inc.
All rights reserved.
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