The Extraordinary Legacy of Emperor Haile Selassie: Ohio's Remarkable Encounter with Africa

Emperor Haile Selassie, born Tafari Makonnen Woldemikael, is a towering figure in the history of Ethiopia and Africa. Known for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to his people, Haile Selassie's legacy has left an indelible mark on the world. This article explores the fascinating journey of this extraordinary individual and his unexpected connection with the state of Ohio, bringing Africa closer to the heartland of America.

From Humble Beginnings to an Iconic Ruler

Haile Selassie was born on July 23, 1892, in the Ethiopian town of Ejersa Goro. Coming from a noble family, he quickly rose through the ranks of the Ethiopian aristocracy. With his intelligence, charisma, and dedication to his people, he soon became a venerated leader known for his progressive reforms.

Emperor Haile Selassie (Ohio Short Histories of Africa)

by Randall M. Rueff (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	351 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	156 pages

FREE

Emperor Haile Selassie's reign, which spanned from 1930 until his overthrow in 1974, was marked by various social, economic, and political reforms. He implemented modernization efforts, improved education, promoted gender equality, and focused on infrastructure development, transforming Ethiopia into a country that commanded global respect.

The Divine Connection: Emperor Haile Selassie and Rastafarianism

One of the most intriguing aspects of Haile Selassie's legacy is his connection with Rastafarianism, a religious movement that originated in Jamaica. Rastafarians consider Haile Selassie to be the Messiah and believe in his divinity.

During his visit to Jamaica in 1966, Emperor Haile Selassie captivated the Rastafarian community with his presence. This encounter solidified their belief in his divine nature and established him as a central figure in their religious beliefs.

The Rastafarian faith holds strong in Ohio, where communities of followers have emerged over the years. These communities have not only advocated for social justice but have also played a pivotal role in promoting African culture, music, and spirituality in the state.

Emperor Haile Selassie's Ohio Connection

Ohio might seem like an unlikely place to find connections to an African emperor, but the state has an extraordinary connection to Emperor Haile Selassie. This connection can be traced back to the memorable visit he made to Ohio in October 1963.

During his visit, Emperor Haile Selassie addressed the United Nations at their headquarters in New York City. Following this iconic speech, he made a stop in Ohio to visit three historically Black colleges and universities: Wilberforce University, Central State University, and Ohio State University.

His visit to Ohio left a lasting impact on the state's African American community, inspiring generations to pursue higher education and become leaders in their respective fields.

The Legacy Lives On

Emperor Haile Selassie's impact continues to resonate today. His commitment to unity, justice, and progress serves as an inspiration for many African Americans, Ohioans, and individuals around the world.

Through his various achievements and the unexpected connections he established, Emperor Haile Selassie's legacy lives on, reminding us of the importance of visionary leadership, cultural appreciation, and the interconnectedness of our global society.

: An Unforgettable Encounter

The extraordinary journey of Emperor Haile Selassie and his unexpected connection with Ohio remains a testament to the power of leadership, faith, and cross-cultural exchange. From his humble beginnings in Ethiopia to his reign as a revered leader and his divine connection with the Rastafarian movement, Emperor Haile Selassie's story captivates and inspires.

As Ohio's African American communities continue to celebrate their memorable encounter with Emperor Haile Selassie, his legacy lives on, reminding us of the transformative power of exceptional individuals and the lasting impact they leave behind.

Emperor Haile Selassie (Ohio Short Histories of Africa)

by Randall M. Rueff (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	351 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	156 pages

FREE

Emperor Haile Selassie was an iconic figure of the twentieth century, a progressive monarch who ruled Ethiopia from 1916 to 1974. This book, written by a former state official who served in a number of important positions in Selassie’s government, tells both the story of the emperor’s life and the story of modern Ethiopia.

After a struggle for the throne in 1916, the young Selassie emerged first as regent and then as supreme leader of Ethiopia. Over the course of his nearly six-decade rule, the emperor abolished slavery, introduced constitutional reform, and expanded educational opportunity. The Italian invasion of Ethiopia in the 1930s led to a five-year exile in England, from which he returned in time to lead his country through World War II. Selassie was also instrumental in the founding of the Organization of African Unity in 1963, but he fell short of the ultimate goal of a promised democracy in Ethiopia. The corruption that grew under his absolute rule, as well as his seeming indifference to the famine that gripped Ethiopia in the 1970s, led finally to his overthrow by the armed forces that he had created.

Haile Selassie was an enlightened monarch in many ways, but also a man with flaws like any other. This short biography is a sensitive portrayal of Selassie as both emperor and man, by one who knew him well.