Taytu Betul

A key figure in Ethiopia's resistance against Italian colonization, instrumental in the victory at the Battle of Adwa in 1896.

Taytu Betul (c. 1851–1918) was an Ethiopian noblewoman and queen consort who played a pivotal role in Ethiopia's struggle for independence during the Scramble for Africa. As the wife of Emperor Menelik II, she leveraged her political acumen and strategic alliances to unite Ethiopian forces against Italian colonial ambitions. Her leadership during the Battle of Adwa (1896) marked a turning point in African history, securing Ethiopia’s sovereignty and inspiring anti-colonial movements worldwide. Beyond warfare, Taytu advocated for women’s participation in governance and oversaw the construction of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s modern capital. Historians like Paul B. Henze highlight her diplomatic finesse, which strengthened Ethiopia’s alliances with European powers to counter Italian aggression.

Her legacy is further explored in academic works such as "Ethiopian Women in the Scramble for Africa", emphasizing her role in shaping Ethiopia’s national identity. Despite her contributions, Taytu remains underrepresented in global historical narratives, underscoring the need to revisit overlooked figures who reshaped geopolitical landscapes.