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Correct Answer: ethiopia.
the african nation once ruled by haile selassie that is highlighted in this discussion is ethiopia. ethiopia is a landlocked country located in the horn of africa and is bordered by eritrea to the north, somalia to the east, sudan and south sudan to the west, and kenya to the south. djibouti also lies to the northeast. this country boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture, and it is unique among african countries for maintaining its independence throughout the colonial era, with the exception of a brief italian occupation during world war ii.
ethiopia is well-known for its historical and biblical references, often mentioned in the context of the queen of sheba and the ark of the covenant. additionally, it is the site of ancient civilizations, including the kingdom of aksum, which was one of the great civilizations of the ancient world and has left behind obelisks, castles, and church relics that still stand today. ethiopia's landscape is diverse and includes vast highlands, deserts, and lakes, which contribute to its rich biodiversity.
one of ethiopia's most famous leaders was emperor menelik ii, who played a critical role in maintaining the country's independence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. he is celebrated for leading ethiopian forces to a decisive victory against the italian invasion at the battle of adwa in 1896. this victory secured ethiopian sovereignty and made the nation a symbol of anti-colonial resistance for many other african countries.
following menelik ii, haile selassie became a prominent figure not only in ethiopia but also worldwide. he ruled from 1930 until his deposition in 1974. haile selassie is a revered figure and is considered a messianic figure by followers of the rastafarian movement, which views him as the returned messiah of the bible, prophesied to lead the peoples of africa and the african diaspora to freedom. an interesting anecdote about his reign is that he was known to have lions as bodyguards—a testament to his formidable reputation.
under haile selassie, ethiopia underwent numerous modernizations and faced various challenges, including famine and conflict. his leadership during the italian occupation, particularly during the second italo-ethiopian war, and his appeal to the league of nations are significant episodes in ethiopian and world history. despite his eventual overthrow, his impact on ethiopia's national identity and development remains profound.
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