The African Army That Defeated A European Empire

The African Army That Defeated a European Army In 1896, an Italian army marched into Ethiopia expecting to expand European colonial power in Africa. Instead, they faced a determined Ethiopian army at the Battle of Adwa—one of the most remarkable military victories in African history. Led by Emperor Menelik II, with the crucial leadership and influence of Empress Taytu, Ethiopian forces confronted Italy in the First Italo-Ethiopian War. On March 1, 1896, the Ethiopian army defeated the invading Italian forces at Adwa, helping Ethiopia preserve its independence during the height of the Scramble for Africa. But how did Ethiopia accomplish what so many other African powers struggled to do? In this documentary, we explore the Battle of Adwa, the Ethiopian army, Menelik II, Empress Taytu, the conflict between Ethiopia and Italy, and the wider story of African resistance to European colonialism. This is more than the story of a battle. It is the story of an African army that changed the course of history. Welcome to What History Forgot — we tell the stories history forgot. Subscribe for more stories about African history, forgotten empires, military history, legendary warriors, historical battles, and untold stories from around the world.