Ethiopian revolution of 1974– causes and consequences

Background

The Ethiopian Revolution of 1974 was a period of significant political, social, and economic upheaval in Ethiopia that led to the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie whose government was accused of being inefficient, corrupt and discriminative. It led to the establishment of a Marxist-Leninist government known as the Derg by a group of army officers.

Causes of the Ethiopian revolution of 1974

The Ethiopian Revolution of 1974 was driven by several key factors:

1. Economic Hardships: Ethiopia faced severe economic challenges, including high inflation, unemployment, heavy taxes and widespread poverty. The 1973 oil crisis exacerbated these issues, leading to increased prices and economic instability.
2. Wollo Famine: The devastating famine in the Wollo region from 1973 to 1975 caused widespread suffering and death. The government’s failure to effectively address the famine and provide relief efforts further fueled public anger and discontent.
3. Political Repression: Emperor Haile Selassie’s regime was known for its authoritarian rule and suppression of political dissent. The lack of political freedoms and the oppressive nature of the government led to growing opposition.
4. Social Inequality: The feudal system in Ethiopia resulted in significant social and economic inequality. The majority of the population, particularly peasants, lived in poverty while small elite controlled most of the land and resources.
5. Military Dissatisfaction: The Ethiopian military, particularly junior officers and soldiers were dissatisfied with their living conditions and treatment by the government. This dissatisfaction led to a mutiny in January 1974, which quickly spread to other military units and civilian groups.
6. Urban Unrest: Urban populations, including students, workers, and teachers, were also discontented with the government’s policies and economic conditions. Protests and strikes became more frequent, demanding better wages, working conditions, and political reforms.
7. Influence of Eritrean secession war. The army tried to convince Selassie to have dialogue with strong advancing Eritrean army in the war of secession. When he refused the army took advantage to oust him.
8. Land question: The king failed to address the land issue where the majority peasant had no land.
9. The inspiration factor: The success of other revolutions in Africa such as that of Libya in 1969 encouraged the Ethiopian nationalists under Major Mengistu Haile Mariam in October 1974 to topple the government.
10. External support: The coup plotter sought support from socialists of the Eastern bloc whose interest was to gain influence over the Red Sea.
11. Ambitions of the younger army officers: These supported the revolution in hope for promotion.
12. International Context: The global context of the 1970s, including the rise of socialist and anti-colonial movements, influenced the revolutionary spirit in Ethiopia. The success of other independence movements around the world inspired Ethiopian revolutionaries2.

These factors collectively led to the Ethiopian Revolution of 1974, resulting in the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie and the establishment of the Derg, a Marxist-Leninist government.

Effects of Ethiopian Revolution of 1974

The Ethiopian Revolution of 1974 had several significant effects:

1. End of Monarchy: The revolution led to the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie and the abolition of the monarchy. The emperor was arrested and later killed in 1975.
2. Establishment of the Derg: The Provisional Military Administrative Council (Derg), led by Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam, took control of the country. The Derg implemented Marxist policies and established a single-party state.
3. Equality for all: the revolutionary council of Derg recognized the equality of people and there was increased tolerance to different rebelions.
4. Land and Agrarian Reforms: The Derg introduced land reforms, redistributing land from the church and feudal lords to peasants. This was aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and reducing economic disparities.
5. Economic Nationalization: The Derg nationalized industries, banks, and other sectors of the economy. This move was intended to control resources and promote socialist development.
6. Social Reforms: The new government launched campaigns to improve literacy, healthcare, and housing. Efforts were made to promote social equality and reduce illiteracy.
7. Political Repression: The Derg’s rule was marked by political repression, human rights abuses, and the infamous Red Terror campaign, during which thousands of people were killed or imprisoned. History repeated itself.
8. International Relations: Ethiopia’s alignment with the Soviet Union during the Cold War led to strained relations with the United States and its allies. The country received support from socialist countries like the USSR and Cuba.
9. Civil War: The revolution set the stage for the Ethiopian Civil War, which lasted from 1974 to 1991 and involved various factions fighting for control of the country.

These effects collectively shaped Ethiopia’s post-revolution history and had lasting implications for the country and the region.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science