About
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Menelik II served as both King and Emperor of Ethiopia. While in power, he successfully fought off invaders from Italy and significantly modernized Ethiopia.
Before Fame
He declared himself King (Negus) in the mid 1860s.
Trivia
During his reign, he established banking and postal services in Ethiopia.
Family Life
The son of Ethiopian royals Haile Melekot and Ijigayehu Adeyamo, Menelik II (baptized Sahle Maryam) was raised in Shewa, Ethiopia. His three marriages -- to Altash Tewodros, Befana Gatchew, and Taytu Betul -- produced no offspring, although he fathered at least three illegitimate children.
Associated With
He and Haile Selassie were both kings and emperors of Ethiopia.
