differences of Ethiopia's foreign policy during Emperor Tewodros ll and Emperor Yohannes lv
Emperor Tewodros II, who ruled Ethiopia from 1855 to 1868, had a foreign policy characterized by a strong desire to modernize the country and establish relationships with Western powers. He sent numerous diplomatic missions to Europe and attempted to establish a commercial treaty with Britain. Tewodros II also had an interest in establishing Ethiopia as a Christian nation and sought the help of European missionaries in achieving this goal. However, his interactions with foreign powers were often marked by conflict, including the famous siege of his fortress by British troops in 1868, which ultimately led to his downfall.
Emperor Yohannes IV, who ruled Ethiopia from 1872 to 1889, had a foreign policy that was more focused on territorial expansion and the consolidation of Ethiopian power. He fought against the expansion of Egypt and the Ottoman Empire in the region and was able to successfully defend Ethiopia's independence against both of these powers. Yohannes IV also resisted attempts by European powers to establish colonies in Ethiopia and worked to develop closer relationships with other African countries, such as Egypt and Sudan.
Ethiopia's foreign policy underwent significant changes between the rules of Emperor Tewodros II and Emperor Yohannes IV. Here are the key differences:
1. Engagement with the West:
- Tewodros II: Emperor Tewodros II sought to establish diplomatic relations and secure military support from Western powers, particularly Britain. His goal was to modernize Ethiopia and resist European colonization.
- Yohannes IV: Emperor Yohannes IV adopted a more cautious approach towards the West. He was skeptical of foreign influence and focused on maintaining Ethiopia's independence. Yohannes was reluctant to establish direct relations with Western powers, preferring to rely on Good Offices Agreements instead.
2. Relations with Egypt and Sudan:
- Tewodros II: Tewodros II sought to establish friendly relations with Egypt and Sudan. He hoped to secure their support against the Ottoman Empire and European colonial ambitions in the region.
- Yohannes IV: Yohannes IV took a more defensive stance against Egypt and Sudan. He was concerned about their encroachment on Ethiopian territory and actively resisted their expansionist efforts.
3. Stability in East Africa:
- Tewodros II: Tewodros II's reign was marked by internal conflicts, including resistance from regional rulers and nobility, which limited his ability to project power beyond Ethiopia's borders. As a result, his foreign policy was more focused on securing internal stability.
- Yohannes IV: Yohannes IV, known for his military successes and centralizing efforts, managed to stabilize Ethiopia's internal affairs. This allowed him to have a more proactive approach towards external threats and expand Ethiopia's influence in the region.
4. Approach towards Colonial Powers:
- Tewodros II: Tewodros II actively sought European assistance, particularly British support, to modernize Ethiopia's military and infrastructure. However, his approach was confrontational at times, which strained relations with Britain.
- Yohannes IV: Yohannes IV's policy towards colonial powers was marked by caution and resistance. He was wary of the expanding European colonial ambitions in Africa and took measures to safeguard Ethiopia's sovereignty, often engaging in defensive military campaigns against encroaching powers.
5. Diplomatic Focus:
- Tewodros II: Tewodros II focused on building alliances with Western powers, namely Britain. He aimed to use their support to modernize Ethiopia and strengthen his position domestically.
- Yohannes IV: Yohannes IV's primary diplomatic focus was on consolidating relations with neighboring African powers, such as Egypt, Sudan, and regional leaders. He aimed to maintain regional stability and secure Ethiopia's borders.
These differences in foreign policy of Emperor Tewodros II and Emperor Yohannes IV reflect the changing circumstances, challenges, and objectives faced by Ethiopia during their respective reigns.