cbr16bingo liberate
I had some vague memories of Ethiopia’s situation during WWII, so I went back to do some research after reading this novel by an Ethiopian author. And as far as I can determine, I must rate it as mostly true and totally unbelievable.
What I was unaware of was the back story. Italy had invaded Ethiopia in the late 19th century, because they thought they should have some colonies too, and this African country seemed to be easy pickings. They were absolutely wrong, and ended up skulking off with their tail between their legs. In the mid-1930s, as war was just over the horizon, they were ready to try it again, but this time they had a new weapon – poison gas and the airplanes from which to spray it. Their emperor, Hailie Selassie, well-read and aware of the political situation, left Ethiopia to argue his case regarding war crimes before the League of Nations but to no avail. He remained in Britain in exile, trying to obtain help for his nation as the forces of WWII began to align themselves. Eventually, with assistance from the British, he returned and was able to drive the Italians out just as WWII began.
So that’s the background. This novel is about Kidane, one of Selassie’s officers, but more importantly also about two women, Aster, Kidane’s wife, and Hirut, his servant. When they notice a follower that looks a lot like Selassie, they hatch a plot to spread the word he has returned, only showing him from a distance. The Ethiopian soldiers, fanatic followers of their emperor, rally in his defense. We also see the Italian officers and observers, and more importantly, the Ethiopian women who, for whatever reason are connected to them, as the tide of war begins to finally turn, once more, against them.
Such Black Panther vibes, but in real life. These are formidable ladies.