Cause of battle of adwa
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The Battle of Adwa, fought on March 1st, 1896, is widely considered one of the most significant military engagements in African history. This decisive victory by the Ethiopian forces over an invading Italian army was a major turning point in
Ethiopia’s independence from European colonialism. In order to understand what led to this battle and its importance, it is necessary to analyze the underlying causes that led to conflict between these two nations.
A major factor contributing to hostilities was the aggressive expansionist policies of Italy during this time period. Italy had ambitions for establishing itself as a major power in Africa throughout the late 19th century and viewed Ethiopia as an obstacle in achieving their goals. They saw Ethiopia’s independence as contrary to their designs for regional dominance and felt threatened by its strong military presence in East Africa, which had been maintained since Emperor Menelik II's reign began in 1889. Therefore they sought any means possible to weaken or destabilize Ethiopia so they could impose their will more easily onto the region.
One such strategy employed by Italy was using diplomacy as a weapon against Ethiopia. The Treaty of Wuchale (also known as Ucciali), signed between Emperor Menelik II and King Umberto I of Italy in May 1889, became an intense source of contention between these two countries when it came into force three years later after being ratified by both sides. This treaty granted certain privileges regarding trade and diplomatic relations but also contained vague language that gave rise to disputes about interpretation concerning certain sections related with taxation, extradition laws, land rights etc., leading each nation towards different interpretations of those articles depending on their own interests and ambitions at hand . After several attempts at resolving differences diplomatically failed due to intransigence from both sides , tensions escalated further with resulting threats from either party Weizmann warning that war may be imminent if matters were not resolved .
Additionally , politics played a large role in why war broke out despite all efforts for peaceful resolution . Many factors contributed , such as internal strife within Ethiopia resulting from political factions vying for control or influence ; close ties which existed between followers who supported Italian annexation ; foreign support given by various European powers such Britain & France; economic considerations impacting both countries; arms race undertaken by Italian government towards endowment & supply modern weapons towards its army; etcetera All these combined together were seen not only having material importance but great symbolic value can be attached because this single event would determine whether African countries could preserve autonomy against outside interference – thus creating ripple effect across entire continent where other nations resisted European colonialism through example set here .
Ultimately , Battle Adwa served important purpose bringing attention plight Ethiopian soldiers valiantly defending homeland against overwhelming odds & showing courage facing mighty invader - serving catalyst inspiring Africans everywhere stand up peacefully yet firmly resist foreign domination . Furthermore , result ended long chain humiliations suffered people during colonial times providing sense pride dignity allowing them regain feeling self-governance lost during colonization era . It unquestionably stands remarkable moment history representing struggle freedom sovereignty still resonates present day wider world context well beyond boundaries nation whom fought victorious day proud name “Adwa” etched into annals mankind forevermore