HAWASSA UNIVERSITY

COLLAGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS

DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE

ASSIGNMENT FOR THE COURSE OF HISTORY OF ETHIOPIA AND THE HORN

GROUP MEMBERS NAME ID No

1. AYANA GIRAGN ………………..…………. 0122/13

2. TEMESGEN DABA …………………………..0733/13

3. MEKUANINT WOLELIE ……...…………….0513/13

4. MEKBIB BAWO ……………..……………… 0501/13

5. MIRKENA MOSISA………………………….0568/13

6. NARDOS TARIKU…………..………………. 0600/13

1. list at least four major religions of Ethiopia. explain how each religion was
introduced, expanded and contributed to specific and in shaping the history of the
region at large.

Ethiopia is a deeply religious society. Therefore, many families and communities strongly
discourage apostasy or conversion. However, there is a broad tolerance and respect of
religious diversity in general. In parts of the country where there are large populations of
both Christians and Muslims (such as the capital city), churches and mosques are often
situated within close proximity and relationships are peaceful.

 The major religions of Ethiopia include:

 Christianity (Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church)

 Islam

 Judaism

 Animism and traditional beliefs

Christianity (Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church): Christianity was introduced to

Ethiopia in the 4th century AD through the efforts of Frumentius, a Syrian Christian who
became the first bishop of Axum. The religion expanded through the conversion of the ruling
elite, and it became the state religion in the 4th century under King Ezana. The Ethiopian
Orthodox Tewahedo Church has played a significant role in shaping the culture, art, and
architecture of Ethiopia. It has also contributed to the development of written literature and
the preservation of ancient Ethiopian texts.

Islam: Islam was introduced to Ethiopia in the early 7th century through early disciples who
sought refuge in the Kingdom of Aksum. The religion expanded through trade and migration,
particularly in the eastern and southeastern parts of the country. Islam has contributed to the
cultural diversity of Ethiopia and has influenced the traditions, language, and architecture of
the region, particularly in the Somali and Afar regions.
Judaism: There is a long history of Judaism in Ethiopia, with the Beta Israel community
being the most prominent. Although the origins of the Jewish community in Ethiopia are not
entirely clear, it is believed that they have existed in the region for thousands of years. The
Jewish population has contributed to the religious diversity and cultural heritage of Ethiopia.
In the 20th century, a significant number of Ethiopian Jews migrated to Israel in dramatic
operations known as Operation Moses and Operation Solomon.

Animism and traditional beliefs: Ethiopia has a rich tradition of animism and traditional
beliefs that predate the introduction of organized religions. These traditional beliefs are
deeply intertwined with the cultural practices and rituals of various ethnic groups in Ethiopia.
They have contributed to the unique identity and cultural heritage of the diverse populations
in the country.

Each of these religions has shaped the history of Ethiopia in different ways, contributing to
the religious and cultural diversity of the region. They have also influenced the political and
social dynamics of Ethiopia throughout its history, playing a significant role in shaping the
country's identity and societal norms.

2. The Oromo population movement of 16th century cannot be better understood

without considering the Gadaa system. refer sources and write a brief explanation
about the values of Gadaa system, and how it contributed to the social integration in
the horn.

The Gadaa system is a traditional system of governance, social organization, and time-
keeping used by the Oromo people of Ethiopia. It is a complex institution that encompasses
political, social, and religious aspects of Oromo society. The values of the Gadaa system and
its contribution to social integration in the Horn of Africa are significant and have been the
subject of academic research and discussion.

The Gadaa system operates on an eight-year-cycle, with each period representing a different
stage in life and serving as a requirement for the assumption of leadership roles within the
community.
The main values of the Gadaa system include:

Democracy and Equality: The Gadaa system is rooted in democratic principles, with
leadership positions being filled through an inclusive and participatory process. Each Gadaa
grade is responsible for specific societal duties, and leaders are expected to rule with the
consent of the governed. This emphasis on democracy and equality within the system has
contributed to a sense of fairness and justice among the Oromo community.

Social Cohesion and Conflict Resolution: The Gadaa system promotes unity and
cooperation among the Oromo people. It fosters a strong sense of communal responsibility
and collective decision-making, thereby contributing to social integration and the resolution
of conflicts through consensus-building and mediation.

Inter generational Transfer of Power and Knowledge: The Gadaa system facilitates the
orderly transfer of power and responsibilities from one generation to the next. As individuals
progress through the Gadaa grades, they gain the knowledge and experience required to
assume leadership roles, ensuring a continuous cycle of competent leadership and
governance.

Preservation of Cultural Identity: The Gadaa system plays a crucial role in conserving
Oromo cultural heritage and maintaining the distinct identity of the Oromo people. It is
deeply intertwined with Oromo rituals, ceremonies, and oral traditions, serving as a means of
cultural preservation and pride.

The Gadaa system played a crucial role in the social integration of the Oromo people and
contributed to the stability and resilience of Oromo society. By emphasizing democratic
governance, social cohesion, and the preservation of cultural identity, the Gadaa system has
helped to maintain a sense of unity and purpose among the Oromo community. It has also
served as a unifying force among different Oromo clans and contributed to the broader social
and political integration in the Horn of Africa. This unique social and political system of the
Oromo people is essential for understanding the historical and contemporary dynamics of the
region.
For further exploration of the values and impact of the Gadaa system, academic sources such
as "Oromo Democracy: An Indigenous African Political System" by Asmarom Legesse and
"Being and Becoming Oromo: Historical and Anthropological Enquiries" by P.T.W. Baxter
provide in-depth analyses of the Gadaa system and its significance in Oromo society.

What are the specific responsibilities of leaders in the different Gadaa grades within the
Oromo community?

How does the Gadaa system contribute to the resolution of conflicts and the promotion of
unity among the Oromo people?

In what ways does the Gadaa system preserve and promote the cultural heritage and identity
of the Oromo people?

3. Discuss major characteristics of both Gondar and “era of worlords” or zemene

mesafint and analyze how such conditions did affect the societies.

The Gondar period, which lasted from the 16th to the 19th centuries, was a significant era in
Ethiopian history characterized by the rise and dominance of the Gondarine Kings. This
period witnessed the establishment of Gondar as the capital of Ethiopia and the flourishing of
art, architecture, and religious scholarship. The era of warlords, or zemene mesafint,
followed the decline of central authority in the 18th century, characterized by regional
warlords vying for power and the disintegration of centralized governance. Both periods had
profound impacts on Ethiopian society.

Gondar Period:

Cultural and Artistic Flourishing: The Gondar period was marked by an efflorescence of
cultural and artistic achievements. Gondarine architecture, characterized by the construction
of elaborately decorated stone castles and churches, reflects the artistic and aesthetic
sensibilities of the period. This legacy continues to shape Ethiopia's cultural identity and has
become a symbol of the country's rich historical heritage.
Religious Influence: The Gondar period was also a time of significant religious patronage
and scholarship. The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church played a central role in the
spiritual and political life of the kingdom.

The construction of numerous monasteries, the production of religious manuscripts, and the
proliferation of religious education contributed to the spread and preservation of Orthodox
Christianity.

Era of Warlords (Zemene Mesafint):

Political Instability and Disintegration: The era of warlords was marked by political
fragmentation and internal strife, leading to the disintegration of central authority. Regional
warlords, known as "rebels" or "bandits," challenged the authority of the monarchy, leading
to prolonged periods of conflict and instability.

Social and Economic Disruption: The era of warlords created significant disruptions to
Ethiopian society. The absence of effective governance led to economic instability, social
upheaval, and widespread suffering among the population. Trade routes were disrupted,
agriculture was affected, and rural communities faced increased insecurity and hardship.

Impact on Ethiopian Society: Both the Gondar period and the era of warlords had profound
effects on Ethiopian society. The Gondar period contributed to the preservation of Ethiopia's
cultural and religious heritage, shaping the country's identity and influencing its artistic and
architectural traditions. The era of warlords, on the other hand, led to political fragmentation,
societal disarray, and economic upheaval, with lasting consequences for the stability and
cohesion of Ethiopian society. These periods of history continue to inform Ethiopia's national
consciousness and have left a lasting imprint on the country's social, cultural, and political
dynamics.

4. Analyze the socio-economic developments of Ethiopia between 1880 and 1941 in

fields of agriculture, land holding system, commercial activities, Industrial and urban
growth.
In the nineteenth century, several autonomous and semi-autonomous states existed at
different stages of socio-economic and political developments. The economic activities
ranged from hunting and gathering to a welldeveloped agriculture and trade. The political
organizations of some of the states were monarchical system in nature while some others
followed political systems of different kinds.

Despite the independent existence of peoples and states, they maintained strong economic,
social and political relations with one another that created strong interdependence in the
region. It is apparent that territorial expansion of the late nineteenth century was made to
control lucrative resource bases and trade routes and thereby form a strong Ethiopian state.
Simultaneously, Ethiopia and the Horn fought major battles against the imposition of
colonial rule and resisted foreign domination as can be seen from the patriotic resistance.

Between 1800 and 1941, Ethiopia experienced significant socio-economic developments

across various domains, including agriculture, land holding system, commercial activities,
and urban growth. These developments were shaped by internal factors, such as political
changes and modernization efforts, as well as external influences from global market shifts
and colonial pressures.

Agriculture and Land Holding System: During this period, agriculture remained the
backbone of the Ethiopian economy. The land holding system was primarily characterized by
the feudal system, where large landholdings were controlled by nobles and the ruling class.
The peasantry, comprising the majority of the population, worked the land under a system of
sharecropping, providing a significant portion of their crops to the landowners as rent. This
system led to disparities in land distribution and limited the ability of peasants to accumulate
wealth or improve their living standards.

Commercial Activities: Commercial activities during this period were influenced by regional
trade networks and the growing demand for Ethiopian goods in international markets.
Ethiopia's position as a pivotal trade hub in the Horn of Africa facilitated the export of goods
such as coffee, ivory, hides, and gold. This trade brought wealth to the ruling class and
contributed to the growth of commerce in urban centers.
Industrial and Urban Growth: Industrial and urban development during this era was
relatively limited in Ethiopia. Urban centers, primarily inhabited by administrative and
military elites, experienced some growth, leading to the establishment of commercial and
artisanal activities. However, industrialization remained nascent, with small-scale
manufacturing and craft production dominating the urban landscape.

Socio-Economic Impact: The socio-economic developments during this period had a mixed
impact on Ethiopian society. The feudal land holding system perpetuated socio-economic
inequalities, with the peasantry facing limited upward mobility and landlessness.
Commercial activities contributed to the prosperity of the ruling class but did not lead to
widespread industrial transformation or urbanization. Additionally, global factors such as the
decline of the slave trade and changes in international market demands influenced Ethiopia's
economic trajectory.

Overall, the socio-economic developments in Ethiopia between 1800 and 1941 reflected a
complex interplay of traditional agricultural practices, commercial expansion, and limited
industrial and urban growth. These developments set the stage for subsequent economic
transformations and modernization efforts that unfolded in the later decades.

5. Identify reforms o the Derg regime and discuss how these reforms shaped the
political and socio-economic conditions of Ethiopia.

The Derg regime, which was in power in Ethiopia from 1974 to 1987, implemented several
reforms that significantly shaped the political and socio-economic conditions of the country.
The Derg took a series of measures that aimed at fundamentally transforming the country. In
December 1974, what was called the Edget Behibiret Zemecha (Development Through
Cooperation Campaign) was inaugurated. In this campaign, all high school and university
students and their teachers were to be sent to the countryside to help transform the life of
peasants through programs such as literacy campaigns and the implementation of the awaited
land reform proclamation.
Here are some of the key reforms:

Land Reform: The Derg introduced a land reform program aimed at redistributing land
from feudal landlords to peasants. This reform sought to address the issue of land inequality
and improve the living conditions of the rural population. However, the implementation of
the land reform was controversial and led to significant disruption in rural areas.

Nationalization of Industries: The Derg nationalized major industries and businesses,

including banks and foreign-owned enterprises. This was intended to centralize economic
control and reduce the influence of private capital. The nationalization policy had mixed
results, with some industries experiencing inefficiencies and declines in productivity.

Education and Health Reform: The Derg placed a strong emphasis on expanding access to
education and healthcare. It implemented policies to increase the number of schools and
clinics, as well as to improve the training of teachers and healthcare workers. These efforts
contributed to improvements in literacy rates and healthcare access, particularly in rural
areas.

Political Centralization: The Derg centralized political power, abolishing the monarchy and
establishing a one-party Marxist-Leninist state. It sought to consolidate its authority and
impose ideological uniformity through mass mobilization and state control over all aspects of
society. This led to significant political repression and the curtailment of civil liberties.

Overall, the reforms of the Derg regime had mixed effects on Ethiopia’s political and socio-
economic conditions. While some initiatives, such as the expansion of education and
healthcare, led to tangible improvements in social indicators, others, such as the land reform
and nationalization policies, created significant disruptions and challenges. The political
centralization also resulted in widespread repression and human rights abuses. Ultimately,
the legacy of the Derg regime’s reforms continues to shape Ethiopia’s development
trajectory and political dynamics.