Ethiopia: Rulers, Reputations, Reality… and the Promise of Fano

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1. Thank you very much, Jeff, for this enlightening video summarizing Ethiopian history and shedding light on the legacies of Menelik II and Haile Selassie and others. It’s crucial to confront the misinformation and historical distortions perpetuated by numerous misguided individuals, some driven by biased agendas or intentionally manipulating facts.

   Menelik II deserves immense recognition for his pivotal role in safeguarding Ethiopia as the lone independent nation in Africa. His victorious feat over the Italians at the Battle of Aduwa is an achievement that warrants global celebration and acknowledgement, extending beyond Africa to Europe and the US.

   Aside from his courageous stance at Adowa, Menelik II was a visionary leader who propelled Ethiopia’s modernization. His introduction of advanced technologies geared towards improving agriculture and manufacturing was foresighted. By advocating modern farming techniques and fostering industrial development, he aimed to amplify productivity and achieve economic self-sufficiency.

   Moreover, his establishment of urban schools and contributions to the modernization of Ethiopia’s education system were paramount. Additionally, Menelik II’s founding of Addis Ababa as the capital city marked a monumental step, initiating substantial infrastructure development in the region.

   There is indeed a significant amount of misinformation surrounding Haile Selassie, including details about his awareness of the hunger crisis in Wello that contributed to his downfall and the rise of the devastating Derg regime. While my historical knowledge might be limited, I share the sentiment of many who believe that Haile Selassie might have accomplished more in reforming the country. Despite the challenges he faced, there were missed opportunities, such as establishing a constitutional monarchy, among other potential reforms.

   Nevertheless, Haile Selassie continued the modernization efforts initiated by Menelik II to a considerable extent. He prioritised expanding educational opportunities by establishing schools and universities, aiming to elevate literacy rates and provide higher education. His implementation of legal and administrative reforms aimed at modernizing governance, and his introduction of economic reforms further aimed at Ethiopia’s development.

   His emphasis on infrastructure expansion, spanning roads, bridges, and telecommunications, was in line with the trajectory set by Menelik II. Both leaders, Haile Selassie and Menelik II, left enduring legacies that significantly shaped Ethiopia’s cultural, political, and historical landscape.
   I share your belief in the potential of the Fanos to bring about significant change in the country. Their exceptional moral standing, decency, and integrity within a resistance movement are remarkably uncommon, not just in Ethiopia but globally!

   I also agree what you were saying regarding the initial hope that accompanied Abiy Ahmed’s leadership, now sadly transformed into an unprecedented nightmare for Ethiopia. Abiy Ahmed’s regime stands as the worst dictatorship in Ethiopia’s history.

   Even when compared to the dreadful Mengistu Haile Mariam and Melese Zenawi, Abiy Ahmed’s atrocities exceed them, he is like Ethiopia’s version of Idi Amin Dada, Mobutu Seseko and such. His cruelty and inhumanity are deeply disturbing, leaving me utterly disgusted. Let’s hope the Fanos emerge as a crucial force in ousting Abiy Ahmed’s demonic regime.

   Once again, Jeff, thank you for the enlightening video. I highly recommend it to everyone; it’s incredibly informative!

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