Haile Selassie

Profession: Ethiopian Emperor

Nationality:

Biography: Haile Selassie I was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974. He was initially the regent for Empress Zewditu from 1916 until her death in 1930, after which he ascended to the throne.

Before his regency, he defeated Ras Gugsa Wole Bitul in the Battle of Anchem. He was a member of the Solomonic dynasty, which is traditionally said to trace its lineage back to the biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.

His reign was marked by attempts to modernize Ethiopia, the introduction of the country's first written constitution, and the abolition of slavery. His rule was challenged, however, when Italy invaded Ethiopia in the Second Italo-Ethiopian War.

Following Italy's occupation, he spent several years in exile in England before returning to Ethiopia in 1941 after the East African campaign. He dissolved the Federation of Ethiopia and Eritrea, which had been established by the UN, and annexed Eritrea as a province of Ethiopia, sparking a long struggle for Eritrean independence.

Haile Selassie played a significant role on the international stage. He made Ethiopia a charter member of the United Nations and, in 1963, he became the first chairman of the Organisation of African Unity, later known as the African Union.

His rule came to an end in 1974 when he was overthrown by the Derg, a Marxist–Leninist military junta that eventually assassinated him in 1975.

Despite his controversial legacy—hailed by some for his efforts to modernize Ethiopia, while criticized by others for his suppression of opposition—Haile Selassie is a key figure in modern Ethiopian history. He is also regarded by the Rastafari movement as a messianic figure.

Born: July 23, 1892
Birthplace: Ejersa Goro, Ethiopian Empire

Generation: Lost Generation
Star Sign: Leo

Died: August 27, 1975 (aged 83)
Cause of Death: Suspected assassination by strangulation