How did Menilek II become emperor of Ethiopia?

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Menilek II, born Sahle Mariam, became the emperor of Ethiopia in 1889 after a long period of strategic consolidation. Following his escape from captivity under Emperor Tewodros II in 1865, he returned to his home province of Shewa and declared himself negus (king).

Although he aspired to the imperial throne after the death of Tewodros in 1868, he was initially forced to submit to the authority of emperors Tekle Giorgis and Yohannes IV. During the reign of Yohannes IV, Menilek focused on expanding his influence by incorporating various southern and eastern territories into his domains, which significantly bolstered his military and political power. By the time Yohannes IV died in 1889, Menilek had emerged as the most powerful leader in the country, allowing him to finally assume the imperial crown.1