Kassa Hailu is crowned Tewodros II, Emperor of Ethiopia

On February 11, 1855, a momentous event took place in Ethiopia that would shape the country’s history for years to come. Kassa Hailu was crowned as Tewodros II, Emperor of Ethiopia, in a grand ceremony at the church of Derasge Maryam. The coronation was officiated by Abuna Salama III, marking a significant milestone in Ethiopian religious and political history.

The coronation of Tewodros II was a turning point in Ethiopian history, as it marked the ascension of a leader who would go on to implement significant political and military reforms. Tewodros II was born as Kassa Hailu in Qwara, a province in what is now the Amhara region of Ethiopia. His humble beginnings did not deter him from pursuing greatness, and he embarked on a journey that would eventually lead him to the throne.

Tewodros II’s path to power was not an easy one. He faced numerous challenges and encountered opposition from regional warlords and other aspirants to the throne. However, through his tactical acumen and military prowess, he was able to navigate these obstacles and establish himself as a prominent figure in Ethiopian politics.

The ceremony at the church of Derasge Maryam was a grand affair, attended by religious leaders, nobles, and other influential individuals from across the country. Abuna Salama III, the head of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church at the time, played a crucial role in the coronation. As the highest-ranking religious authority in Ethiopia, his involvement in the ceremony lent legitimacy and divine approval to Tewodros II’s ascension.

The coronation itself was a meticulously planned event, with every detail carefully orchestrated to convey a sense of grandeur and solemnity. The church of Derasge Maryam, located in the ancient city of Gondar, was chosen as the venue for its historical significance and symbolic importance. It was within these hallowed walls that Tewodros II would receive the blessings of Abuna Salama III and be anointed as Emperor of Ethiopia.

The coronation of Tewodros II marked a turning point in Ethiopian history, as it signaled a shift towards centralization of power and the consolidation of authority under one ruler. Tewodros II was determined to modernize Ethiopia and strengthen its position in the face of encroaching European colonial powers. He focused on reforms in areas such as taxation, infrastructure development, and the military, envisioning a stronger and more prosperous Ethiopia.

Tewodros II’s reign was not without its challenges. His attempts to modernize the country sometimes encountered resistance from traditionalist factions, and he faced numerous internal and external conflicts. However, his leadership and determination left a lasting impact on Ethiopia, setting the stage for further political and social reforms in the years to come.

The coronation of Tewodros II as Emperor of Ethiopia on February 11, 1855, remains a pivotal moment in Ethiopian history. It symbolizes the aspirations of a leader who sought to transform his country and safeguard its independence. The ceremony at the church of Derasge Maryam, overseen by Abuna Salama III, exemplified the deep intertwining of religion and politics in Ethiopian society.

the coronation of Tewodros II as Emperor of Ethiopia on February 11, 1855, was a significant event that shaped the course of Ethiopian history. By centralizing power and implementing reforms, Tewodros II laid the foundation for a stronger and more modern Ethiopia. The ceremony at the church of Derasge Maryam marked the beginning of his transformative reign and symbolized the close relationship between religion and politics in Ethiopian society.