Adwa’s victory: a painful blow to colonialism and a Global symbol of freedom

The Treaty of Wachali of May 2, 1889.The Treaty of Wachali was signed between Emperor Menelik II of Ethiopia and Count Pietro Antonelli, representative of King Umberto of Italy. The treaty consists of 20 articles and was written in the Amharic and Italian scripts. A notable point of contention arose in Article 17, which had different meanings in Amharic and Italian texts.

Amharic text: “His Majesty the King of Ethiopia may use the government of His Majesty the King of Italy in all business with other powers or governments.”

Translation of the Italian text: “His Majesty the King of Ethiopia permits you to benefit from the government of His Majesty the King of Italy in all the commercial dealings he has with other powers or governments.”

The contradiction in the texts of Article 17 of the Treaty of Washali, as revealed in the Amharic and Italian texts, ultimately led to the outbreak of the Battle of Adwa.

Adwa’s victory

The victory of Adwa on March 1, 1896, was a monumental African victory, making Ethiopia a symbol of courage and independence for the continent. It was the culmination of a united Ethiopian effort, especially by farmers who had not received any formal military training, to transcend ethnic and regional differences and overcome internal challenges. This was embodied in their response to the call of Emperor Menelik II.

The invitation read, “Your country has been invaded by Italian colonial forces. Put your grievances aside and defend your country.” This call prompted people to take up arms, mobilized the Ethiopians, and united them.

A Resounding Defeat for Colonialism:

The Battle of Adwa was a decisive victory for an African nation over a major European power at the height of colonial expansion. It shattered the myth of European invincibility and inspired resistance movements across Africa and beyond.

Key points:

A morale boost for anti-colonial liberation movements: The victory boosted the morale of colonized peoples and demonstrated the possibility of defeating colonial powers. It gave hope and confidence to independence movements across Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.

A spotlight on the brutality of colonialism: The battle exposed the inherent brutality and exploitation of colonialism. It served as a reminder of the human cost of imperial ambitions and fueled anti-colonial sentiments worldwide.

A celebration beyond Ethiopia and Africa:

A symbol of African unity: Adwa has become a powerful symbol of African pride and unity. Its significance transcends national borders and resonates with Africans and people of African descent worldwide.

Global recognition: Scholars and historians acknowledge the pivotal role of the Battle of Adwa in world history. The battle features prominently in discussions of imperialism, anti-colonial struggles, and the development of the modern world.

Reasons for continued celebration:

Continuing relevance: The fight against oppression and inequality continues worldwide. The Battle of Adwa stands as a reminder of the power of collective resistance and the importance of the struggle for freedom and justice.

Historical significance: Adwa remains a critical turning point in world history, marking a major shift in power dynamics and inspiring generations of freedom fighters. Its historical significance keeps its memory alive.

Cultural identity: Celebrating the Battle of Adwa strengthens cultural identity and fosters a sense of belonging among Ethiopians and people of African descent worldwide. It is a way to connect with a shared past and celebrate resilience and achievement.

The Adwa Victory Museum achieves two strategic goals:

The first is building a correct national historical narrative. Second: strengthening the role of the battle in liberating Africa, as African leaders see the victory of an enemy as a victory over colonialism.

12 Ethiopian military commanders participated in the Battle of Adwa, and a memorial was erected for them in the western gate of the building, next to memorials for the fighters who were martyred in this historic war. The head of the monument is decorated with a map of the African continent with a green background, and the rays of the sun shine on it, in reference to the light that permeated the peoples of Africa.

The Ethiopian army numbered 120,000–75,000, of whom were infantry without shoes, and the rest (45,000) were knights.

Africans or black people considered this victory a source of strength for resistance against colonialism, although there was other resistance that did not achieve victories. But the Battle of Adwa decided the war on the African continent.

Adwa Museum, which is located in Addis Ababa city administration on an area of 5 hectares,

It is considered the starting point of the African political capital, Addis Ababa, for the distance scale. It displays other things that enhance our understanding of history and culture.

Among these items:

Tools and weapons: a group of weapons and tools used by soldiers and fighters during the battle, such as rifles, swords, armor, and other heavy military equipment.

Military clothing and uniforms: A section displays the military uniforms worn by soldiers and commanders during the war, and it is an important part of documenting military life in that period.

Photos and documents: A collection of photos and documents documenting the events and personalities associated with the battle, taken from historical archives and highlighting important details.

Arts and cultural exhibitions: art or cultural exhibitions showcasing artists and creators who were inspired by the Battle of Adwa. These works of art include paintings, sculptures, and other works.

Educational interaction: Interactive sections allow visitors to better understand the historical events and circumstances in which the battle took place through educational video models.

A world-class gym.

An artificial waterfall in the facade of the Western Gate mimics the Nile River and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project, which is also considered a victory over poverty and the colonial agreement.

Modern, advanced conference halls in which international conferences can be hosted. Commercial shops such as banks, cafes, restaurants, and a gym for children, in addition to a large and spacious parking lot.

In short, the Adwa Victory Museum is an important place for learning and contemplating the history of Ethiopia and the region, and it contributes to the preservation of national and cultural memory.

The lasting significance of the Battle of Adwa: It goes beyond Ethiopia and Africa

The Battle of Adwa, which took place on March 1, 1896, between Ethiopia and Italy, is of great importance not only for Ethiopia and Africa but also for the global struggle against slavery and colonialism. Here is an explanation of its effect:

Impact on the struggle against slavery and colonialism:

A major setback for colonialism: Adwa was a victory for an African nation against a major European power at the height of colonial expansion. It shattered the myth of the invincibility of Europeans and inspired resistance movements throughout Africa and beyond.

Boosting the morale of anti-colonial liberation movements, the victory boosted the morale of the colonized peoples and demonstrated the possibility of defeating the colonial powers. It also gave hope and confidence to independence movements throughout Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Highlighting the brutality of colonialism: The battle exposed the brutality and exploitation inherent in colonialism.

It served as a reminder of the human cost of imperial ambitions and kindled anti-colonial sentiment around the world.

Celebrating Adwa’s victory goes beyond Ethiopia and Africa. A symbol of pan-African unity: Adwa has become a powerful symbol of pan-African pride and advocacy. Its importance transcends national borders and resonates with Africans and people of African descent around the world.