02/03/2026
VICTORY DAY
Ethiopian forces under Emperor Menelik I! defeated Italian colonizers. This crucial victory on March 1, 1896, halted Italy’s colonial expansion, secured Ethiopia’s sovereignty, and inspired anti-colonial movements across Africa.
CAUSE: The conflict arose from disputes over the Treaty of Wuchale, with Italy claiming a protectorate over Ethiopia, which Menelik rejected.
The Role of Ethiopian Women
Women were not only supporters - they were part of victory:
• Carried supplies, food, and water.
Treated wounded soldiers.
• Some fought directly.
• Led by Empress Taytu, women boosted
morale and logistics.
