การปฏิวัติ 1974: การล้มล้างราชวงศ์และการสถาปนาสาธารณรัฐประชาธิปไตยในเอธิโอเปียภายใต้คณะปฏิวัติทหาร

ใน realms of history, stories often intertwine to form complex tapestries. Today we delve into a particular thread: the Ethiopian revolution of 1974, an event that shook the foundations of imperial Ethiopia and ushered in a new era of political and social transformation.
At the heart of this dramatic upheaval stood Queen Zewditu, the last empress of Ethiopia. While her reign spanned from 1916 to 1930, it is crucial to understand the broader context leading up to the revolution. For centuries, Ethiopia had been ruled by emperors tracing their lineage back to the biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. However, by the early 20th century, cracks began to appear in this ancient edifice.
The rise of modern nationalism challenged the traditional power structures, while social inequalities and economic hardship fueled discontent among the masses. Zewditu’s rule, though marked by attempts at modernization and reform, ultimately failed to quell these growing tensions. The revolution of 1974 was not a sudden explosion but rather the culmination of decades of simmering resentment and political instability.
Led by a coalition of military officers, intellectuals, and students, the revolution gained momentum through mass demonstrations and strikes.
The demands were clear: an end to imperial rule, the establishment of a democratic republic, and a more equitable distribution of wealth and power. The Derg, as the ruling junta was known, swiftly deposed Emperor Haile Selassie I, Zewditu’s cousin and successor, effectively ending centuries of monarchical rule.
While Queen Zewditu herself had passed away in 1930, her legacy remained intertwined with the revolutionary changes sweeping Ethiopia. Some historians argue that her attempts at modernization, albeit limited, helped pave the way for future reforms. Others point to the deep-seated problems within the imperial system, which ultimately proved unsustainable in the face of mounting social pressures.
The revolution’s immediate aftermath was marked by a period of intense upheaval and uncertainty. The Derg embarked on a program of radical social and economic transformation, nationalizing industries, redistributing land, and promoting literacy campaigns. However, these efforts were often marred by violence and repression.
The Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), led by Meles Zenawi, emerged as the dominant force in Ethiopian politics after the fall of the Derg in 1991. The EPRDF oversaw a period of economic growth and political stability, albeit with ongoing concerns about human rights and democratic freedoms.
Queen Zewditu: A Complex Legacy
Born in 1876, Queen Zewditu was the daughter of Emperor Menelik II, who unified Ethiopia and repelled Italian colonialism at the Battle of Adwa in 1896. Zewditu’s reign began under unusual circumstances. Her predecessor, her cousin Emperor Lij Iyasu, was deposed due to concerns about his religious beliefs and potential pro-German sympathies during World War I. Zewditu, who adhered to Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, was seen as a more suitable candidate for the throne.
Her rule was marked by several significant events:
- The establishment of the Council of Ministers: This body, composed of prominent figures from different regions, aimed to increase representation and address local concerns.
- Modernization efforts: Zewditu initiated projects in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. She also encouraged the development of agriculture and industry.
Despite her efforts, Zewditu faced numerous challenges:
- Conservative opposition: Traditionalist factions resisted her reforms, viewing them as a threat to the established order.
- Financial constraints: Ethiopia’s limited resources hampered the implementation of ambitious modernization plans.
Zewditu passed away in 1930 after a reign marked by both progress and limitations.
Her legacy remains complex and subject to interpretation. Some view her as a reformer who sought to modernize Ethiopia within the confines of the traditional system, while others see her as a figure ultimately unable to address the deep-seated inequalities that would eventually lead to revolution.
The Legacy of the Ethiopian Revolution: Reflections and Lessons
The 1974 revolution was a watershed moment in Ethiopian history, leading to profound changes in the political, social, and economic landscape. The abolition of the monarchy, the establishment of a socialist state, and the pursuit of radical reforms had lasting consequences.
Period | Key Events |
---|---|
Pre-Revolution (Early 20th Century) | Rise of nationalism, social inequality, economic hardship |
1974 | The Derg seizes power, deposing Emperor Haile Selassie I |
Post-Revolution (1974 - 1991) | Radical social and economic reforms, violence and repression |
Post-Derg Era (1991 - Present) | Emergence of the EPRDF, economic growth, continued concerns about human rights |
While the revolution ultimately failed to deliver on its promise of a truly democratic and equitable society, it raised critical questions about power structures, social justice, and the role of the state in shaping national development.
Studying this historical period offers valuable insights into the complexities of revolution, the challenges of building a new society, and the enduring legacy of colonialism and imperialism in shaping African nations. The Ethiopian revolution serves as a reminder that the quest for social change is often a long and arduous journey fraught with both triumphs and setbacks.