Daily Current Affairs: The Battle of Adwa (1896)

📅 Date: 19 December 2025 (Friday)

The Indian Prime Minister recently paid a diplomatic visit to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. During the visit, he laid a wreath at the Adwa Victory Monument, paying tribute to a pivotal moment in African history. But why is this battle so important?

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1. What was the Battle of Adwa?

The Battle of Adwa was a military clash fought on March 1, 1896, between the Ethiopian Empire (then known as Abyssinia) and the invading forces of Italy.

Historical Significance

This victory was not just about defending land; it was a symbol of African resilience.

• Sovereignty Secured: The victory ensured that Ethiopia remained an independent nation during the "Scramble for Africa."
• Breaking the Myth: It was the first crushing defeat of a European power by African forces during the colonial era, inspiring anti-colonial movements worldwide.

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2. The Aftermath: Mussolini's Revenge

While the 1896 victory secured independence for decades, the conflict reignited in the 20th century.

• 1935 Invasion: Italian dictator Benito Mussolini invaded Ethiopia, starting the Second Italo-Ethiopian War.
• Liberation (1941): By 1940, Italy declared war on Great Britain (WWII). In 1941, British forces joined Ethiopian resistance fighters to finally drive the Italians out.

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3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Study Tip: Remember "Menelik II" and "1896" — these are the most common questions related to this topic in World History and International Relations exams.