Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia

Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia, was the final Emperor of Ethiopia and the founder of centralized Ethiopia with access to the sea. He reigned for 58 years and carried out numerous reforms that encouraged the country's development and growth of its international authority. He was also the founder of modern Ethiopian diplomacy, maintaining diplomatic relations with 81 states.

Format: Hardback
Length: 298 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia, is the subject of Nigusie Kassaye W. Michael's comprehensive political history. During his reign, which saw Ethiopia reach its peak of power, Michael offers a detailed account of the country's domestic and foreign politics. Drawing on Russian and Ethiopian archival sources, the book explores Haile Selassie I as not only the final Emperor of Ethiopia but also as the founder of centralized Ethiopia with access to the sea. He ruled the country for 58 years, and for 44 years he held the top position in the Empire. However, what is more significant than the length of his rule is the multitude of significant reforms he implemented, which fostered the country's development and enhanced its international authority.

Michael contends that Haile Selassie was the pioneer of modern Ethiopian diplomacy. When the monarch departed from his palace in 1974, Ethiopia was a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization of African Unity, the World Health Organization, and the International Red Cross. The country maintained diplomatic relations with 81 states, 61 of which had embassies and missions in Addis Ababa.

Haile Selassie I's reign was marked by significant achievements in various fields. He implemented land reform, modernized the country's infrastructure, and promoted education and healthcare. He also played a crucial role in the liberation of African countries from colonialism and worked towards achieving unity among African nations.

However, Haile Selassie I's reign was also marked by challenges and controversies. He faced opposition from within Ethiopia, particularly from the Tigrayan People's Liberation Front, which sought to establish a socialist government in the country. Additionally, his policies towards neighboring countries, such as the invasion of Somalia in 1977, were criticized for their aggressive nature and for undermining regional stability.

In conclusion, Haile Selassie I's political history is a fascinating and complex tale that sheds light on the last Emperor of Ethiopia's contributions to the country's development and his impact on the region. Michael's book provides a comprehensive account of Haile Selassie I's reign, exploring his achievements, challenges, and controversies. It is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in African history, politics, and international relations.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 239 x 158 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666908237