Menelik II

Menelik II reigned as King of Shewa from 1866 to 1889 and Emperor of Ethiopia from 1889 until his death in 1913. He is one of the most important historical figures in Ethiopia. By 1898, the process of territorial expansion and the formation of the modern empire-state had been completed to the best of his ability both within and externally.

Under Emperor Menelik, the Ethiopian Empire underwent a transformation as the main modernizing pillars were put in place with the help of significant ministerial advisors. Externally, Menelik commanded Ethiopian forces in the First Italo-Ethiopian War against Italian invaders. After a resounding victory at the Battle of Adwa, external powers recognized Ethiopia's independence by sending diplomats to his court and drawing boundaries between Ethiopia and neighboring kingdoms. Incorporating the Oromo, Kaffa, Sidama, Wolayta, and other kingdoms or peoples, Menelik widened his domain to the south and east.

Menelik established the first Cabinet of Ministers later in his reign to aid in the governance of the Empire, selecting dependable and well-liked nobles and retainers to fill the first Ministries. These ministers would continue in their positions for a very long time after his passing, holding them during the brief reign of Lij Iyasu (whom they assisted in toppling) and into the reign of Empress Zewditu.

(1844 - 1913)