Menelik II and Ethiopian Sovereignty

Menelik II was a pivotal figure in Ethiopian history, serving as King of Shoah and later as Emperor of Ethiopia. He expanded his territory and maintained autonomy while recognizing Johannes IV as Emperor. Menelik's diplomatic skills were crucial in acquiring modern weapons from Europeans. Upon becoming Emperor, he faced European imperialism, particularly from Italy, which sought control over Ethiopia. Menelik's strategic diplomacy led to the Treaty of Wuchale, but misunderstandings led to conflict. Menelik's forces ultimately defeated the Italians at the Battle of Adwa, securing Ethiopian sovereignty.

What role did Menelik II initially hold before becoming Emperor of Ethiopia?

• King of Harar

• King of Gondar

• King of Tigray

• King of Shoah

How did Menelik II's diplomatic skills benefit Ethiopia?

• By acquiring modern weapons from Europeans

• By forming alliances with neighboring African countries

• By establishing trade routes with Asia

• By signing peace treaties with all European powers

During what period did Menelik II become Emperor of Ethiopia?

• During the industrial revolution

• During the Ethiopian civil war

• During the height of European imperialism

• During the decline of European imperialism

Which European countries had established bases along the Somali coast during Menelik II's reign?

• Germans, Belgians, and Russians

• Norwegians, Swedes, and Danes

• Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch

• French, British, and Italians

What was the main purpose of the Treaty of Wuchale?

• To declare Ethiopian independence from European powers

• To recognize Italian control over Eritrean highlands

• To establish a trade agreement with France

• To form a military alliance with Britain

What was Menelik II's approach to the Italian ambition to take over Ethiopia?

• He declared war immediately

• He signed a treaty with them

• He sought help from other European powers

• He ignored their advances

What misunderstanding arose from the Treaty of Wuchale?

• Ethiopia was allowed to colonize Eritrea

• Italy gained control over all of Ethiopia

• Ethiopia was granted independence

• Ethiopia was seen as a protectorate of Italy

What was the outcome of the Battle of Adwa?

• A stalemate was reached

• Ethiopia surrendered to European powers

• Ethiopia defeated Italy

• Italy defeated Ethiopia

What did Menelik II do in response to Italy's claim over Ethiopia?

• He signed another treaty with Italy

• He sought military aid from France

• He wrote to European powers to refute it

• He accepted the claim

What was the significance of Menelik II's victory at the Battle of Adwa?

• It marked the beginning of Italian rule in Ethiopia

• It was a major victory for European imperialism

• It was a significant defeat for European colonial ambitions in Africa

• It led to the colonization of Ethiopia by another European power