How did life change for Ethiopian farmers during the Age of the Princes?

During the Zamana Masafent, or the Age of the Princes (1769–1855), life for the majority of Ethiopian farmers became increasingly difficult. While the fundamental social order remained largely unchanged, the political landscape shifted from a central court to competing regional princes.1

As these regional lords vied for power through constant warfare, the farming population faced heightened oppression. Armies frequently traversed the highlands, which led to the ruin of the countryside and the systematic plundering of farmers' harvests. This era of feudal fragmentation persisted until the rise of Tewodros II, who consolidated power and ended the period of instability.1