Here are responses to your questions based on historical context:
5. Why Menelik II Expanded His Territory in Southern Ethiopia?
Menelik II expanded his territory in southern Ethiopia during the late 19th century for several reasons:
- Consolidation of Power: Menelik sought to consolidate his rule over various ethnic groups and regions to unify the country under a central government.
- Control of Trade Routes: Expanding southwards allowed Menelik to control important trade routes and secure economic resources from fertile lands.
- Buffer Against Colonial Powers: As European powers scrambled for Africa, Menelik aimed to create a buffer zone against potential invasions, strengthening Ethiopia's sovereignty.
- Cultural Assimilation: By expanding into southern territories, Menelik aimed to integrate different ethnic groups into the Ethiopian Empire, promoting a shared national identity.
6. Why Menelik Threatened the Newly Incorporated Areas?
Menelik II threatened newly incorporated areas to:
- Ensure Loyalty: Newly conquered regions were often discontented or resistant to central authority; Menelik needed to assert control to prevent uprisings.
- Prevent Fragmentation: By using military force when necessary, Menelik aimed to prevent fragmentation of the empire, thereby maintaining unity in the face of external pressures.
- Resource Extraction: Control over new territories was often motivated by the desire to extract natural and human resources, which required a show of strength to maintain order.
7. Consequences of the Battles of Gondar and Qure
The Battles of Gondar (1896) and Qure (1898) had significant consequences:
- Military Defeat of the Dervish Forces: These battles were pivotal in weakening the Mahdist forces and asserting Ethiopian military strength.
- Formation of a Unified Ethiopian Identity: Victories against external threats fostered a sense of national identity and pride among Ethiopians.
- Geopolitical Implications: The defeats weakened Sudanese influence in the region and marked Ethiopia as a formidable power in East Africa, altering colonial ambitions from European powers.
8. Why Khedive Ismail Pasha Started the War of Aggression Against Ethiopia in the 1870s?
Khedive Ismail Pasha initiated a war of aggression against Ethiopia for several reasons:
- Expansionism: Inspired by the policy of territorial expansion, Ismail sought to extend Egyptian control over neighboring territories, including Ethiopia.
- Economic Interests: Controlling Ethiopia would allow access to resources and trade routes, enhancing the Khedive's wealth and influence.
- Political Prestige: Victories in Ethiopia would bolster Ismail's position and legitimacy within Egypt, particularly as he sought to create a modern state.
9. Significance of Ethiopia's Victory Over Italians at the Battle of Adwa in 1896
The victory at the Battle of Adwa had far-reaching significance:
- Preservation of Sovereignty: It ensured Ethiopia remained one of the few African nations to retain its independence during the era of European colonialism.
- Symbol of Anti-Colonial Resistance: The defeat of a European power became a symbol of resistance and inspired anti-colonial movements across Africa.
- International Recognition: The victory solidified Ethiopia's place in international diplomacy, leading to recognition of its sovereignty.
10. Discuss the Phrase of Patriotic Resistance
The phrase "patriotic resistance" refers to:
- Defending National Identity: Resistance movements in Ethiopia embodied the struggle to protect cultural, social, and political identity against colonization.
- Collective Mobilization: It signifies the collective efforts of Ethiopians to resist foreign aggression, uniting various ethnic groups around the notion of defending their homeland.
- Legacy of Valor: The concept became a legacy of Ethiopian pride and valor, contributing to the narrative of resistance not just in Ethiopia but across Africa.
11. Discuss the Attempts of Arba Robich and Mogos Aseqdom to Kill Graziani
Arba Robich and Mogos Aseqdom attempted to assassinate General Rodolfo Graziani, the Italian governor of occupied Ethiopia, as acts of resistance. Their motivations included:
- Opposition to Occupation: Their actions reflected the widespread discontent and resentment towards Italian colonial rule.
- Aim for Liberation: They hoped to strike a blow against the occupiers, inspiring others to join the resistance against Italian colonialism.
- Symbolic Acts: Even though their attempts did not succeed, they are emblematic of the broader struggle and courage displayed by Ethiopians in their fight for freedom.
These answers highlight the complexity of Ethiopia's historical context, involving dynamics of resistance, colonialism, and national identity.