

Italian soldiers occupied the southern border of Eritrea where the town of Adwa is located.Įthiopians created their own liturgical language known as Geez. In addition to traditional soldiers, the Ethiopian army included farmers, pastoralists, and women.ĭue to its victory in the Battle of Adwa, Ethiopia is the only African nation that has never been colonised. World Civil Defense Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Civil Defense 5 FACTS REGARDING THE BATTLE OF ADWA World Compliment Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities World Music Therapy Day 2023: Date, History, Facts World Seagrass Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Seagrass In an additional treaty signed in October 1896, Italy acknowledged Ethiopia’s independence. This resistance was viewed as the impetus for the Pan-African Movement, which spread across the entire African continent in the 20th century and freed it from colonial oppressors. The significance of the Battle of Adwa lies in the fact that it was the first time an African nation defeated a European colonial power. The battle resulted in a decisive defeat for the Italians, who were forced to retreat to their home countries. In the beginning of the war, the Italians enjoyed some success, but in the Battle of Adwa, the Ethiopian forces were able to completely defeat their opponents. This misunderstanding precipitated the First Italo-Ethiopian War in 1895. The Italians understood that the treaty would result in Ethiopia falling under Italian control. However, plans changed when it was discovered that the Italian and Ethiopian versions of the treaty contained significant differences. Although most of Africa was already under colonial rule, Ethiopia was able to retain its independence due to its strong monarch and capable military.Įmperor Menelik II of Ethiopia signed the Treaty of Wuchale with Italy for additional financial and military support in 1889. In the 19th century, Ethiopia, a country comprised of semi-independent kingdoms, came under the rule of Ethiopian Emperor Menelik II. The background of Adwa Victory DayĪdwa Victory Day represents African resistance to colonial powers. This day is significant because it marks the celebration of Ethiopian independence. Thus, the Battle of Adwa forced an otherwise diverse and. Men and women from all over the country took up arms literally and figuratively to protect their nation’s sovereignty. People pay homage to their ancestors who aided contemporary Ethiopians in securing their independence from European rule by taking to the streets, participating in parades, and telling old stories. Conflict arose, culminating three years later in a violent clash between the Italian imperial forces and the army of Ethiopia on 1 March 1896. After many years of conflict and warfare with Italy, Ethiopia was able to defeat Italian forces in the northern city of Adwa and secure victory.

This day commemorates Ethiopia’s 1896 victory over Italy. Adwa Victory Day is an Ethiopian national holiday celebrated annually on March 2.
