Haile Selassie Quotes

A collection of quotes by Haile Selassie.

Haile Selassie (1892-1975) was the last emperor of Ethiopia, ruling from 1930 until he was overthrown in a coup in 1974. Born as Tafari Makonnen in a small Ethiopian town, he was appointed regent in 1916 and took the throne as Emperor Haile Selassie I in 1930. He is often revered as the religious figurehead of the Rastafari movement.

Selassie aimed to modernize Ethiopia and implemented significant economic and social reforms during his rule. He expanded education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and introduced a legal system based on Western principles. He also played an important role in advancing Pan-Africanism and was a prominent figure in international diplomacy, advocating for African independence and equality.

Haile Selassie faced significant challenges during his reign, including the Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1935. Despite temporarily going into exile, he ultimately rallied international support and managed to restore Ethiopian independence in 1941. However, his later years were marked by increased political unrest and opposition to his leadership, leading to his overthrow and subsequent house arrest in 1974.

Haile Selassie’s legacy as a leader, advocate for African independence, and his association with the Rastafari movement has ensured his lasting influence. While Ethiopia has undergone significant changes since his reign, his impact on the country's development and position in international affairs remains an important chapter in its history.