Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 265 - The Battle Of Adwa
Jun 18, 2023
Italy's ambitious invasion of Ethiopia leads to an unexpected defeat at the Battle of Adwa. The hosts dive into Italy's colonial blunders, the crucial miscommunications of leadership, and the rallying cry that united Ethiopian forces. They explore Menelik's innovative tactics and how confusion plagued the Italian advance. The fallout from the battle sparked protests in Italy and led to the downfall of key leaders. Ultimately, this clash reshaped the region's political landscape, leaving a lasting legacy for both nations.
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The Two Versions Of Wuchale
- Menelik signed an Amharic version of the Treaty of Wuchale that preserved Ethiopian sovereignty.
- Italy presented a different Italian text that effectively made Ethiopia a protectorate, sparking the diplomatic crisis.
Foreign Support Modernized Ethiopia
- France and Russia secretly armed and trained Menelik's forces, tipping the balance with modern rifles and artillery.
- Those foreign advisors and weapons transformed Ethiopia into a capable, modernized army before Adwa.
Unified Mobilization Against Invaders
- Menelik rapidly mobilized a massive, multi-ethnic army that dwarfed Italian forces and unified rival factions.
- Ethiopia's call to arms overcame internal rivalries and produced over 100,000 combatants at Adwa.
