Empress Taytu Betul was dedicated to modernizing and improving the country of Ethiopia, and while Italy wanted to be a part of those plans, Taytu wanted nothing to do with Europe.
Taytu provided housing, built a church and hotel, promoted agriculture efforts, and education opportunities as well as roles in the governmental sector. But her greatest effort for the country was when she led thousands of Ethiopians to war against Italy in defense of their freedom.
In 1896, Ethiopia went to war with Italy in the bloody Battle of Adwa. Taytu was on the battlefield with her husband and soldiers. She came up with the idea of cutting off the water supply for Italian forces, organizing defensive perimeters, and gathering 10-12,000 women to aid the main with resources.
Her strategies helped lead Ethiopia to victory and forced the Italians to retreat.
Taytu earned the nickname of Warrior Queen and her legacy lives on today.
Betul was a key mastermind in preserving Ethiopia’s independence and one of the many examples of the limitless power of Black women.