Menelik II: His Top 20 Important Achievements You Must Know

Menelik II, the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1889 to 1913, was a visionary leader who made significant contributions to the development and modernization of his country. 

His achievements had a lasting impact not only on Ethiopia but also on the African continent as a whole. In this article, we will explore twenty of Menelik II's most important accomplishments that are worth knowing.

1. Unifying Ethiopia

Menelik II successfully united various regions of Ethiopia, consolidating power and ending internal conflicts. His efforts led to a stronger and more cohesive nation. He is also the leader who introduced the first one national flag of Ethiopia.

2. Modernizing the Military

Recognizing the importance of a strong military, Menelik II modernized the Ethiopian army by introducing firearms and training his soldiers in European tactics.

3. Defeating Italian Invasion

Menelik II's victory over the Italian army at the Battle of Adwa in 1896 ensured Ethiopia's independence and made him a symbol of African resistance against colonialism. Because of him Ethiopia is the only country in Africa that successfully defended its independence.

4. Expanding Ethiopian Territory

Under Menelik II's rule, Ethiopia experienced significant territorial expansion, particularly in the south and southwest regions. Not only that, his method of expanding the territory of Ethiopia is done in such a way that is humane and respects the identity and culture of the people and their leaders.

5. Promoting Education

Menelik II established schools and encouraged education, leading to increased literacy rates and the development of a more educated population. He understood the value of education in promoting growth and progress. He started schools all over Ethiopia, but especially in big cities like the capital Addis Ababa. 

Contrary to the prevalent conventions at the time, these schools educated both boys and girls. Menelik II School is a school that comprises primary (elementary) and secondary (high school) institutions. The primary school was established in 1908 by the order of Emperor Menelik II, being the first modern school and pioneer for modern education in Ethiopia. The schools are located in Arat Kilo in Addis Ababa.

6. Improving Infrastructure

Menelik II was renowned for his significant contributions to Ethiopian infrastructure development. During his reign, public infrastructure projects, communication networks, and transportation networks all underwent remarkable expansion. 

The building of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, which linked the port city of Djibouti with Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, is one of Menelik II's most illustrious accomplishments. This railroad line, which was completed in 1917, was essential in facilitating trade and transportation and opening up Ethiopia to the global market. Menelik II also put a lot of effort into expanding the country's road system. 

Numerous roads, including the well-known Imperial Highway connecting Addis Abeba and Harar, were built at his initiative. These roads promoted trade, facilitated the movement of people and goods, and improved connectivity between regions. Menelik II oversaw the construction of numerous buildings and facilities in terms of public infrastructure. He built the Menelik Palace, which served as his home, as part of the expansion of the imperial palace complex in Addis Abeba. 

Today this contains the offices and residence of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia. In addition, he built public institutions such as schools, hospitals, and offices of government across the nation, aiding in the development of urban areas and enhancing public services. 

Additionally, Menelik II made investments in the expansion of postal and telegraph systems, enhancing communication both within Ethiopia and with the outside world. This infrastructure improvement was essential in tying together the nation's various regions and strengthening the central government's hold on outlying areas. The overall goals of Menelik II's infrastructure projects were to modernize Ethiopia, improve connectivity, and advance economic growth. His initiatives helped Ethiopia advance overall during his rule and laid the groundwork for later infrastructure developments in the nation.

7. Encouraging Trade

Menelik II promoted trade both domestically and internationally, establishing diplomatic relations with various countries and encouraging foreign investment. He was also instrumental in promoting trade with other countries and within Ethiopia. 

He worked to promote and increase commercial activity because he understood the economic significance of trade for Ethiopia's development. The development of a cutting-edge transportation infrastructure was one of Menelik II's notable contributions to the promotion of trade. 

He started the construction of telegraph lines, roads, and bridges, which increased connectivity and facilitated the transportation of goods across the nation. These infrastructure upgrades made it easier to access markets and reduced the cost of transportation, which promoted trade.

8. Implementing Legal Reforms

Menelik II implemented significant legal reforms during his reign as Emperor of Ethiopia. He recognized the need for a modern legal system that would provide a framework for governance, justice, and the protection of individual rights.

9. Developing Agriculture

Menelik II implemented agricultural reforms, encouraging modern farming techniques and improving irrigation systems, leading to increased productivity.

10. Expanding Industry

Menelik II established industries in Ethiopia, particularly in the textile sector, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

11. Encouraging Foreign Experts

Recognizing the need for expertise in various fields, Menelik II invited foreign experts to Ethiopia to help develop infrastructure, industries, and education. 

He understood the value of outside knowledge and actively encouraged outside experts to participate in a variety of fields to aid in the development of Ethiopia. Menelik II invited professionals from Europe and other parts of the world to share their knowledge and expertise with Ethiopia during his reign, including advisors, teachers, engineers, and professionals. He believed that the knowledge of these specialists could aid in modernizing various areas of the nation.

12. Preserving Ethiopian Culture

Menelik II took significant steps to preserve Ethiopian culture and heritage, protecting historical sites and promoting traditional arts and crafts. Menelik II took significant steps to preserve Ethiopian culture during his reign. He recognized the importance of cultural heritage and made efforts to safeguard and promote Ethiopia's unique traditions, language, art, and history. 

• Language and Literature: Menelik II promoted the use and preservation of the Amharic language, which is the official language of Ethiopia. He encouraged the translation of various texts and works of literature into Amharic, making them more accessible to the Ethiopian population. This initiative aimed to preserve the cultural and historical knowledge contained in these texts and to promote literacy in the country. 

• Arts and Architecture: Menelik II supported the development and preservation of Ethiopian arts and architecture. He patronized local artists and craftsmen, encouraging the creation of traditional artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts. He also contributed to the construction and renovation of significant architectural landmarks, such as churches and palaces, in traditional Ethiopian styles. 

• Historical Preservation: Menelik II recognized the importance of preserving Ethiopia's rich historical heritage. He took measures to protect historical sites, monuments, and artifacts from destruction or theft. He supported the restoration and maintenance of ancient churches, castles, and archaeological sites, ensuring that they would be preserved for future generations. 

• Cultural Institutions: Menelik II established cultural institutions and museums to safeguard and showcase Ethiopian cultural artifacts and heritage. He founded the first Ethiopian National Museum in Addis Ababa, which became a repository for important historical and cultural artifacts. These institutions played a vital role in preserving and promoting Ethiopia's cultural legacy. 

Traditional Practices and Customs: Menelik II respected and promoted traditional Ethiopian customs and practices. He recognized the significance of traditional ceremonies, rituals, and celebrations and actively participated in them. By doing so, he reaffirmed the importance of Ethiopian cultural practices and encouraged their continuation.

Through these initiatives, Menelik II demonstrated a commitment to preserving and promoting Ethiopian culture. His efforts contributed to the preservation of Ethiopian languages, arts, architecture, historical knowledge, and traditional practices, ensuring that they remained integral parts of the country's identity and heritage.

13. Strengthening International Relations

During his reign, Ethiopia's Menelik II did in fact work to improve relations with other countries. He pursued diplomatic initiatives to develop and uphold cordial ties with a number of foreign powers, particularly European countries. His motivation for taking this action was to uphold Ethiopia's sovereignty, safeguard its interests, and advance political and economic cooperation.

 
Menelik II successfully established diplomatic relations with various European powers, ensuring Ethiopia's recognition as a sovereign nation. The Treaty of Wichale (also known as the Treaty of Uccialli), which was negotiated with Italy in 1889, is one of Menelik II's most notable diplomatic accomplishments. 

The purpose of this agreement was to outline the parameters and rules of engagement between Ethiopia and Italy. Nevertheless, disputes later arose regarding how the treaty should be interpreted, resulting in the Battle of Adwa in 1896, where Ethiopian forces soundly defeated the Italians. The victory at Adwa improved Ethiopia's standing abroad and cemented its status as the only African country to successfully fend off European colonization.

14. Promoting Gender Equality

Menelik II supported women's rights and actively worked towards empowering Ethiopian women, providing them with education and opportunities. The role of and contribution of his wife, Empress Taytu, to his administration is a living testament of this.

15. Enhancing Healthcare

Menelik II invested in improving healthcare facilities and promoting public health initiatives, resulting in better access to medical services for the Ethiopian population. He is the one who introduced the Red Cross Association, Drugstore, and Hospital to Ethiopia for the first time.

16. Modernizing Postal Services

Menelik II introduced modern postal services in Ethiopia, improving communication within the country and with the rest of the world. In 1892, Ménilék II gave Leon Chefneux the task of locating supplies for a telegraph line connecting Addis Abeba and Harär. 

As the foundation of Ethiopian Posts, Telegraphs and Telephones (Telecommunications), it underwent construction beginning in 1897. Chefneux was given a commission by Ménilék to produce coins and stamps on February 10th, 1893. The first use of the stamps took place in Harär on January 29, 1895, and in Éntotto on May 1, 1895, when Casimir Mondon-Vidailhet, a special representative of the French government, was appointed postmaster. The stamps were printed in France in 1894.

17. Establishing a National Bank

Menelik II established the Bank of Abyssinia, Ethiopia's first national bank, contributing to economic stability and financial development.

18. Protecting Ethiopian Independence

Menelik II actively defended Ethiopia's independence against external threats, ensuring the country's sovereignty and autonomy.

19. Revising Land Ownership

Menelik II implemented land reforms, granting peasants the right to own and cultivate land, leading to increased agricultural productivity and social stability.

20. Leaving a Legacy of Leadership

Menelik II's leadership and achievements continue to inspire future generations, serving as a symbol of resilience, progress, and national pride for Ethiopians.

Conclusion

Menelik II's twenty most important achievements listed aand discussed demonstrate his profound impact on Ethiopia's development and his prominent role in shaping the nation's history. From unifying the country and defending its independence to modernizing various sectors and promoting education and gender equality, Menelik II's legacy remains significant and deserves recognition.

Let’s finish the article by a list of modern things that Menelik introduced to Ethiopia during his time. The "E.C" is short to Ethiopian Calendar.

• 1882 E.C. - Phone
• 1885 E.C. - Meal grinding machine
• 1886 E.C. - Post office
• 1886 E.C. - Eucalyptus tree /Bahr zaf
• 1886 E.C. - Money
• 1886 E.C. - Water line
• 1887 E.C. - Shoe
• 1887 E.C. - Music School
• 1887 E.C. - Type writer
• 1889 E.C. - Electric
• 1889 E.C. - Modern health treatment
• 1889 E.C. - Cinema
• 1889 E.C. - Phonograph record
• 1889 E.C. - The red cross
• 1890 E.C. - Hospital
• 1893 E.C. - Train
• 1893 E.C. - Bicycle
• 1896 E.C. - Road
• 1898 E.C. - Banking
• 1898 E.C. - Hotel
• 1898 E.C. - Printing press
• 1898 E.C. - Plastic
• 1899 E.C. - Wildlife preservation
• 1899 E.C. - Ammunition factory
• 1900 E.C. - The newspaper
• 1900 E.C. - Automobile
• 1900 E.C. - The appointment of ministers
• 1901 E.C. - Police power
• 1904 E.C. - Pharmacies