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Zamana Masafent
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Zamana Masafent

Ethiopian history
Also known as: Age of the Princes
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The term "Zamana Masafent" refers to the "Age of the Princes," a period of Ethiopian history from 1769 to 1855 characterized by feudal anarchy. During this era, central authority collapsed, and power shifted to regional princes who frequently engaged in conflict. This led to increased oppression of the farming population as armies moved through the countryside, damaging land and seizing harvests.12

Despite the instability, significant developments occurred in the south, with the formation of Oromo states and the rise of a regional kingdom in northern Shewa. The period ended when Kassa Hailu defeated the regional lords and was crowned Emperor Tewodros II in 1855, consolidating power and establishing the modern Ethiopian state.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. history of Ethiopia - Challenge, revival, and decline (16th–19th century)
  2. Ethiopia - Challenge, revival, and decline (16th–19th century)

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