DILLA UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER ENGINEERING

History of Ethiopia and the horn

Group assignment

BY:
No. FULL NAME ID No.
1. DAWIT SHIMELIS………………………4054/19
2. AYELE ASMAMAW……………………5275/19
3. ASMAMAW ABATE……………………4938/19
4. BIRHANU ESUBALEW…………………9799/19
5. ASSEFA GETAHUN………………………8011/19
6. ENDALE GETAHUN……………………..9480/19

7. DEKSIWOS ABRHA………………..……5579/19

Dilla, Ethiopia
May 2014
Submitted to Mr. Sisay(Msc)
Internal Developments and External Relations in Ethiopia, 1941–1995
Catalog
1. Introduction:...............................................................................................................3
2. Haile Selassie Era (1941-1974)..................................................................................4
3. External Relations under Haile Selassie.....................................................................5
4. Transition Period (1974-1991)...................................................................................6
5. External Relations during the Derg Regime...............................................................7
6. End of the Derg Regime and Transition to Democracy (1991-1995)........................8
7. Conclusion................................................................................................................10
End notes......................................................................................................................11
References....................................................................................................................13
 Internal Developments and External Relations in Ethiopia, 1941–
1995

1. Introduction:

The period from 1941 to 1995 was a transformative era in Ethiopian history, marked
by internal changes and shifts in external relations. Emerging from Italian occupation,
Ethiopia embarked on a path of modernization and global engagement. In 1941,
Ethiopia regained independence after defeating Italian forces. Emperor Haile Selassie
led efforts to modernize the country post-war, facing challenges and opportunities in
rebuilding the economy and institutions.

Under Emperor Haile Selassie, Ethiopia pursued development projects to modernize

the country, though disparities persisted between urban and rural areas. While some
benefited from advancements, others faced marginalization, leading to social tensions.
Authoritarian rule characterized Ethiopia during this period, with dissent suppressed.
Opposition movements challenged the monarchy's legitimacy, setting the stage for
political upheavals.

Ethiopia's engagement with the international community was shaped by Cold War
dynamics and regional conflicts. As a Western ally, Ethiopia received support against
Soviet expansionism but faced border disputes with Somalia and Eritrea.
The overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie in 1974 led to the Derg regime, bringing
radical transformations and human rights abuses. Internal turmoil worsened by
famines and ethnic conflicts culminated in the transition to democracy in 1991.

The period from 1941 to 1995 saw Ethiopia navigate internal changes and external
relations, shaping its trajectory. From modernization under Emperor Haile Selassie to
the tumultuous years under the Derg regime and the transition to democracy,
Ethiopia's history reflects its people's resilience amidst challenges. Understanding
these dynamics is vital for comprehending Ethiopia's current political landscape and
its pursuit of stability, prosperity, and democracy[1].
2. Haile Selassie Era (1941-1974)

 Restoration of Monarchy:

Following the defeat of Italian forces in 1941, Emperor Haile Selassie returned to
power, restoring the monarchy and reaffirming Ethiopia's sovereignty. Haile Selassie's
return marked the end of Italian occupation and the restoration of traditional
governance structures [1].

 Modernization Efforts:

Emperor Haile Selassie initiated various modernization efforts aimed at transforming

Ethiopia into a modern nation-state [1]. These efforts included investments in
infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture to spur economic development
and improve living standards.
 Economic Policies and Challenges:
Haile Selassie's economic policies focused on industrialization, land reforms, and
promotion of export-oriented agriculture [. However, Ethiopia faced numerous
economic challenges, including limited resources, a predominantly agrarian economy,
and vulnerability to droughts and fluctuations in global commodity prices [2].
 Social Changes and Disparities:
While Haile Selassie's modernization efforts brought about some social changes, they
primarily benefited urban elites and certain segments of the population . Rural areas,
where the majority of Ethiopians lived, often experienced neglect and
underdevelopment, exacerbating socio-economic disparities [1].
 Political Oppression and Resistance:
The Haile Selassie era was characterized by authoritarian rule and political repression,
with limited political pluralism and suppression of dissent . Opposition movements,
including student protests and ethnic grievances, challenged the monarchy's authority,
leading to periodic crackdowns and arrests [3].
 Famine and Drought Crises:
Ethiopia experienced several severe famines and droughts during the Haile Selassie
era, which had devastating consequences for the population [1]. These crises were
exacerbated by factors such as environmental degradation, population pressures, and
government mismanagement, leading to widespread hunger and suffering [4]
Overall, the Haile Selassie era was a period of both progress and challenges for
Ethiopia. While the country made strides in modernization and development,
particularly in urban centers, socio-economic disparities persisted, and political
repression stifled dissent. The recurring famines and droughts underscored the
vulnerability of Ethiopia's agrarian economy and the need for sustainable
development strategies.

3. External Relations under Haile Selassie

 Ethiopia's Positioning in the Cold War:

Ethiopia strategically positioned itself as a key player in the Cold War rivalry between
the Western bloc led by the United States and the Eastern bloc led by the Soviet
Union . Haile Selassie's government aligned with the Western bloc, viewing it as a
bulwark against Soviet expansionism in the Horn of Africa region [1]. Ethiopia's anti-
communist stance and its strategic location at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle
East made it an important ally for Western powers [5].

 Alliances and Assistance:

In the context of the Cold War, Ethiopia forged close alliances with Western powers,
particularly the United States . The United States provided military and economic
assistance to Ethiopia, including arms sales, training for the Ethiopian military, and
development aid . These alliances bolstered Ethiopia's military capabilities and
positioned it as a key ally in the containment of Soviet influence in the region [5].

 Role in African Unity:

Ethiopia played a significant role in the establishment of the Organization of African

Unity (OAU) in 1963, which aimed to promote unity and cooperation among African
states . As one of the founding members of the OAU, Ethiopia advocated for African
solidarity and collective action to address regional challenges and promote
decolonization . Haile Selassie's government positioned itself as a leader in the Pan-
African movement, hosting OAU summits and supporting liberation movements
across the continent [6].
 Border Disputes and Regional Conflicts:

Ethiopia faced several border disputes and regional conflicts during the Haile Selassie
era, particularly with neighboring countries such as Somalia and Eritrea . The Ogaden
region was a major flashpoint, with Somalia laying claim to the area inhabited by
ethnic Somalis. This led to armed conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia in the late
1970s . Ethiopia also faced a protracted struggle with Eritrean separatists seeking
independence from Ethiopian rule . The Eritrean War of Independence, which lasted
from 1961 to 1991, resulted in Eritrea gaining independence in 1993 [7].
Overall, Ethiopia's external relations under Haile Selassie were shaped by its strategic
positioning in the Cold War, alliances with Western powers, advocacy for African
unity, and regional conflicts with neighboring countries. These dynamics influenced
Ethiopia's foreign policy priorities and its role in shaping regional and international
affairs during the mid-20th century.

4. Transition Period (1974-1991)

 Fall of Haile Selassie:

The transition period in Ethiopia began with the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie
in 1974, marking the end of centuries of monarchy in Ethiopia. Haile Selassie's reign
came to an abrupt and ignominious end amidst widespread discontent over political
repression, economic inequality, and famine crises.
 Rise of the Derg Regime:
The Derg, a Marxist-Leninist military junta led by Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam,
seized power following the overthrow of Haile Selassie.
The Derg regime promised to address the grievances of the Ethiopian people,
including land reform, social justice, and political freedom. However, it soon became
characterized by authoritarian rule and widespread human rights abuses.
 Marxist-Leninist Policies and Nationalization:
Under the Derg regime, Ethiopia pursued Marxist-Leninist policies aimed at
centralizing control over the economy and society. The government implemented
radical land reforms, nationalized key industries and enterprises, and sought to
redistribute wealth and resources in accordance with socialist principles. However,
these policies resulted in economic stagnation, food shortages, and a decline in living
standards for many Ethiopians[8].
 Ethnic Conflicts and Human Rights Abuses:
The Derg regime's authoritarian rule fueled ethnic tensions and conflicts across
Ethiopia, particularly in regions such as Eritrea, Tigray, and Oromia.
The government's brutal crackdown on dissent, including extrajudicial killings,
arbitrary arrests, and torture, led to widespread human rights abuses and civilian
casualties.
 Famine Crisis and International Response:
Ethiopia experienced a devastating famine in the mid-1980s, exacerbated by drought,
government mismanagement, and the Derg regime's policies. The famine, which
affected millions of Ethiopians and resulted in widespread starvation and death,
garnered international attention and humanitarian aid efforts.Organizations such as the
United Nations, non-governmental organizations, and foreign governments launched
massive relief operations to provide food, medicine, and assistance to famine-stricken
areas.
The transition period from 1974 to 1991 was a tumultuous and challenging time in
Ethiopia's history, marked by the fall of Haile Selassie, the rise of the Derg regime,
Marxist-Leninist policies, ethnic conflicts, and a devastating famine crisis. These
events profoundly shaped Ethiopia's socio-political landscape and had far-reaching
consequences for the country's development and stability[9].

5. External Relations during the Derg Regime

 Soviet Alliance and Cold War Dynamics:

The Derg regime forged close ties with the Soviet Union, receiving military
assistance, economic aid, and ideological support. Ethiopia's alignment with the
Soviet bloc was a strategic response to Cold War dynamics, positioning the country as
a counterbalance to Western influence in the region. The Soviet alliance strengthened
Ethiopia's military capabilities and provided crucial support during the Eritrean War
of Independence and the Somali Conflict.
 Eritrean War of Independence:
The Derg regime's attempt to impose Marxist-Leninist policies on Eritrea sparked a
protracted and bloody conflict with Eritrean separatists seeking independence from
Ethiopian rule. The Eritrean War of Independence, which lasted from 1961 to 1991,
saw fierce fighting between Ethiopian government forces and Eritrean rebel groups,
including the Eritrean People's Liberation Front (EPLF).
Despite receiving substantial military and economic assistance from the Soviet Union,
the Ethiopian government failed to suppress the Eritrean independence movement,
leading to Eritrea's eventual secession in 1993[10].
 Intervention in the Somali Conflict:
Ethiopia intervened in the Somali Civil War in the late 1970s and early 1980s,
supporting Somali rebel groups opposed to the Somali government. The Derg
regime's intervention in the Somali Conflict was driven by geopolitical
considerations, including concerns over Somali irredentism in the Ogaden region and
the desire to weaken Somalia as a potential threat to Ethiopian stability.
Ethiopia's military involvement in Somalia further exacerbated tensions between the
two countries and contributed to regional instability[11].
 Regional and Global Diplomacy:
Despite its alliance with the Soviet Union, Ethiopia pursued a pragmatic approach to
regional and global diplomacy, seeking to balance competing interests and maintain
stability in the Horn of Africa.
The Derg regime actively participated in regional organizations such as the
Organization of African Unity (OAU) and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM),
advocating for African unity and collective security.
Ethiopia also engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve border disputes with
neighboring countries and promote peace and cooperation in the region, although
these efforts were often undermined by internal conflicts and geopolitical rivalries.
During the Derg regime, Ethiopia's external relations were characterized by its
alliance with the Soviet Union, involvement in regional conflicts such as the Eritrean
War of Independence and the Somali Conflict, and diplomatic efforts to maintain
stability in the Horn of Africa. These external dynamics shaped Ethiopia's foreign
policy priorities and its position within the broader context of Cold War
geopolitics[9].

6. End of the Derg Regime and Transition to Democracy (1991-1995)

 Overthrow of the Derg:

The Derg regime was overthrown in 1991 following a series of popular protests,
internal divisions within the military, and mounting pressure from opposition groups.
The collapse of the Derg marked the end of nearly two decades of authoritarian rule
and opened a new chapter in Ethiopia's history.

 Establishment of a Transitional Government:

In the aftermath of the Derg's downfall, a transitional government was established to
oversee Ethiopia's transition to democracy.
The transitional government, composed of various political parties and representatives
from different ethnic groups, aimed to restore peace, stability, and democratic
governance in Ethiopia[11].
 Adoption of a New Constitution:
In 1994, Ethiopia adopted a new constitution that enshrined principles of democracy,
human rights, and federalism.
The new constitution established a federal system of government, devolving power to
regional states and granting autonomy to Ethiopia's diverse ethnic groups.
The adoption of the constitution marked a significant milestone in Ethiopia's
transition to democracy and provided a framework for inclusive governance and
political representation.
 Challenges and Opportunities for Democratization:
The transition period from 1991 to 1995 was marked by both challenges and
opportunities for democratization in Ethiopia.
Challenges included ethnic tensions, political instability, and economic uncertainty,
stemming from decades of authoritarian rule and internal conflicts.
However, the transition also presented opportunities for political reconciliation,
national dialogue, and inclusive governance, as Ethiopia embarked on a path towards
democratic consolidation and social cohesion.
Overall, the end of the Derg regime and the transition to democracy from 1991 to
1995 represented a critical juncture in Ethiopia's history. The overthrow of
authoritarian rule, establishment of a transitional government, adoption of a new
constitution, and the pursuit of democratization marked significant strides towards
political reform and national reconciliation. However, the transition period was not
without its challenges, and Ethiopia would continue to grapple with issues of
governance, ethnic diversity, and socio-economic development in the years to
come[12].

7. Conclusion

 Legacy of Internal Developments and External Relations:

The period from 1941 to 1995 witnessed profound internal developments and external
relations that have left a lasting legacy on Ethiopia's history and society.
Internally, Ethiopia experienced significant socio-economic changes, including efforts
at modernization, political repression, ethnic tensions, and recurring famine crises.
Externally, Ethiopia navigated Cold War dynamics, regional conflicts, and alliances
that shaped its foreign policy priorities and geopolitical position in the Horn of Africa.
Impacts on Ethiopia's Contemporary Political Landscape:

The legacies of the Haile Selassie era, the Derg regime, and the transition to
democracy continue to influence Ethiopia's contemporary political landscape.
Ethiopia's transition from monarchy to authoritarian rule under the Derg regime,
followed by a transition to democracy, reflects the country's ongoing struggle for
political stability, governance reform, and national reconciliation.
The country's diverse ethnic composition and historical grievances pose ongoing
challenges for democratic governance, as evidenced by recent political unrest and
ethnic conflicts[13].
In conclusion, the period from 1941 to 1995 was a pivotal era in Ethiopia's history,
marked by internal transformations and external relations that continue to shape the
country's contemporary political landscape. Understanding the legacies of this period
is essential for addressing Ethiopia's ongoing challenges and aspirations for
democratic governance, socio-economic development, and national unity in the 21st
century.
End notes

1. Introduction

Our emphasis

2. Haile Selassie Era (1941-1974)

 [1] Zewde, Bahru. A History of Ethiopia, 1855-1991 (Second Edition). Oxford:

James Currey, 2001. (This comprehensive resource provides a detailed analysis
of the Haile Selassie era, encompassing restoration of monarchy, modernization
efforts (including infrastructure development, education reforms, healthcare
initiatives, and agricultural advancements), economic policies (focusing on
industrialization, land reforms, and export-oriented agriculture), social changes
and emerging disparities, political repression and resistance movements, and
recurrent famines and droughts.)

3. External Relations under Haile Selassie

 [5] Marina Ottaway. Ethiopia: Society and Polity. Red Sea Press, 1990. (This
source delves into Ethiopia's strategic positioning during the Cold War and its
alliance formations with Western powers, particularly the United States)
 [6] John Markakis. Ethiopia: A Political History. London: Routledge, 2011. (This
book offers insights into Haile Selassie's leadership role in the Pan-African
movement, including hosting OAU summits and supporting liberation
movements across Africa)
 [7] Bereket Habte Selassie. Border and Boundaries in Modern Ethiopian History.
Trenton, NJ: Red Sea Press, 1986. (Use this source for in-depth details on
Ethiopia's border disputes with neighboring countries like Somalia and Eritrea
during the Haile Selassie era, including the Ogaden region conflict)

4. Transition Period (1974-1991)

 [8] Clapham, Christopher. "Haile-Selassie's Government." The Ethiopian Journal

of Social Sciences and Language Studies, vol. 4, no. 1, 2017, pp. 1-16. (This
article provides additional context on the socio-political situation leading up to
 the Derg regime, including growing discontent over political repression,
economic inequality, and famine crises that contributed to the fall of Haile
Selassie)
 [9] Young, John. Peasant Revolution in Ethiopia: The Tigray People's Liberation
Front, 1975-1991. Cambridge University Press, 1997. (This historical account
offers insights into the rise of the Derg regime, the Tigray People's Liberation
Front's role in the revolution, and the subsequent conflicts that unfolded)
 [10] de Waal, Alex. Evil Days: Thirty Years of War and Famine in Ethiopia.
Human Rights Watch, 1991. (This report by Human Rights Watch documents the
human rights abuses perpetrated by the Derg regime, including extrajudicial
killings, arbitrary arrests, torture, and suppression of dissent.)

5. External Relations during the Derg Regime

 [11] Berhanu, Baye. "Ethiopia's Relations with the Soviet Union During the Derg
Regime (1974-1991)." The Ethiopian Journal of Social Sciences and Language
Studies, vol. 2, no. 2, 2014, pp. 123-140. (This article explores the close ties
forged between Ethiopia and the Soviet Union during the Derg era. It analyzes
the motivations behind the alliance, including the Cold War dynamics, Soviet
military and economic assistance, and ideological support for the Marxist-
Leninist regime)

6. End of the Derg Regime and Transition to Democracy (1991-1995)

 [12] Abbink, Jon. "Eritrea and Ethiopia: From Conflict to Cooperation." Journal
of Modern African Studies, vol. 37, no. 4, 1999, pp. 531-556. (This journal article
examines the historical relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia, particularly
focusing on the protracted and bloody Eritrean War of Independence that
unfolded during the Derg regime. It explores the reasons behind the conflict, the
Derg regime's failed attempts to suppress the separatist movement, and the
eventual secession of Eritrea in 1993)

7. Conclusion

Our emphasis
References

[1] Zewde, Bahru. A History of Ethiopia, 1855-1991. Second Edition. Oxford: James
Currey, 2001.
[2] Pankhurst, Richard. An Economic History of Ethiopia vol 1: The Imperial Era
1941-74. CODESRIA Bookshop, n.d.
[3] Markakis, John. Ethiopia: A Political History. London: Routledge, 2011.
[4] Dawson, Andrew. "The 1973-74 Famine in Ethiopia." Third World Quarterly 16.3
(1995): 635-649.
[5] Marina Ottaway. Ethiopia: Society and Polity. Red Sea Press, 1990. (For details
on Ethiopia's Cold War alliances)
[6] John Markakis. Ethiopia: A Political History. London: Routledge, 2011. (For
information on Haile Selassie's role in the Pan-African movement)
[7] Bereket Habte Selassie, Border and Boundaries in Modern Ethiopian History.
Trenton, NJ: Red Sea Press, 1986
[8] Clapham, Christopher. "Haile-Selassie's Government." The Ethiopian Journal of
Social Sciences and Language Studies, vol. 4, no. 1, 2017, pp. 1-16.
[9] Young, John. Peasant Revolution in Ethiopia: The Tigray People's Liberation
Front, 1975-1991. Cambridge University Press, 1997.
[10] de Waal, Alex. Evil Days: Thirty Years of War and Famine in Ethiopia. Human
Rights Watch, 1991.
[11] Berhanu, Baye. "Ethiopia's Relations with the Soviet Union During the Derg
Regime (1974-1991)." The Ethiopian Journal of Social Sciences and Language
Studies, vol. 2, no. 2, 2014, pp. 123-140.
[12] Abbink, Jon. "Eritrea and Ethiopia: From Conflict to Cooperation." Journal of
Modern African Studies, vol. 37, no. 4, 1999, pp. 531-556.
[13] Korn, David A. "Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa." Foreign Affairs, vol. 60, no.
1, 1981, pp. 69-90.