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Emperor Haile Selassie: A Pioneer of African Unity and a Symbol of Resilience

Junot Díaz

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Emperor Haile Selassie (Ohio Short Histories of Africa)

by Randall M. Rueff

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	351 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	156 pages

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Emperor Haile Selassie I, The Lion Of Judah, In Royal Attire. Emperor Haile Selassie (Ohio Short Histories Of Africa)

Tafari Makonnen was born on July 23, 1892, in Ejersa Goro, Ethiopia. He was the son of Ras Makonnen Woldemikael, governor of Harar, and Woizero Yeshimebet Ali. Tafari's lineage can be traced back to the Solomonic dynasty, which ruled Ethiopia for over two thousand years.

Tafari's early education was supervised by his father, who instilled in him a deep sense of Ethiopian history, culture, and religion. In 1905, at the age of 13, Tafari was appointed governor of Sidamo province. He quickly demonstrated his administrative and diplomatic skills, earning the respect of both his subjects and fellow nobles.

In 1916, Empress Zewditu, the reigning monarch of Ethiopia, adopted Tafari as her heir. He was given the title of Ras Tafari and became regent of the empire. Upon Zewditu's death in 1930, Tafari was crowned emperor and took the name Haile Selassie I, which means "Power of the Trinity".

Modernization and Reforms

Emperor Haile Selassie I was a visionary leader who embarked on a series of ambitious modernization and reform programs. He abolished slavery, introduced a new constitution, and established a modern education system. He also invested heavily in infrastructure, including roads, railways, and hospitals.

Haile Selassie I was a staunch supporter of Pan-Africanism and played a key role in the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963. He believed that African nations should unite to overcome the challenges of colonialism and economic underdevelopment.

World War II and the Italian Occupation

During World War II, Ethiopia was invaded by fascist Italy in 1935. Haile Selassie I led the resistance against the Italian occupiers and became a symbol of African resistance to colonialism. He famously appealed to the League of Nations for support, but his pleas were largely ignored by the international community.

Haile Selassie I was forced to flee Ethiopia in 1936, but he continued to lead the resistance from exile in England. He returned to Ethiopia in 1941 after the country was liberated by Allied forces.

Post-War Era and the Rastafari Movement

After the war, Haile Selassie I continued to play a prominent role in international affairs. He was a founding member of the United Nations and served as its president from 1963 to 1964.

Haile Selassie I was also a spiritual figure for many people around the world, particularly among the Rastafari movement. The Rastafari believe that Haile Selassie I is the embodiment of God and the rightful ruler of the world.

Legacy and Impact

Emperor Haile Selassie I died on August 27, 1975, at the age of 83. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures in African history. He was a pioneer of African unity, a symbol of resistance to colonialism, and a respected statesman on the global stage.

Haile Selassie I's legacy continues to inspire people around the world. He is a reminder of the power of resilience, the importance of unity, and the potential of Africa to overcome its challenges and achieve a better future.

Emperor Haile Selassie (Ohio Short Histories of Africa)

by Randall M. Rueff

4.4 out of 5