Rare Books on the Victory of Adwa: Forgotten Narratives of Africa

The Battle of Adwa, fought on March 1, 1896, stands as one of Africa’s most significant military victories. Ethiopia’s triumph over Italy not only secured its sovereignty but also served as a powerful symbol of anti-colonial resistance. While the story of Adwa is well-documented in Ethiopian history, many rare books provide unique perspectives on this momentous event—some written by Ethiopian scholars, others by foreign observers fascinated by Ethiopia’s resilience.

This article explores some of the rarest and most insightful books on the Battle of Adwa, shedding light on lesser-known narratives that deserve recognition.

Jules Borelli, a French explorer and geographer, documented Ethiopia’s military strategies and societal structure in his book La Guerre d'Abyssinie. Published soon after the battle, this work provides a firsthand account of the Ethiopian military’s strength and strategic ingenuity. Though often overlooked, Borelli’s observations contribute valuable insights into Ethiopia’s preparedness and tactical superiority over Italian forces.

 

 

An Italian journalist and war correspondent, Luigi Barzini, wrote Il Massacro di Adua, reflecting on Italy’s defeat with a mixture of astonishment and regret. His book offers an Italian perspective on the battle, revealing the miscalculations and arrogance of the Italian military. While it was originally meant to explain Italy’s failure, it inadvertently highlights Ethiopia’s strength and determination.

 

 

One of Ethiopia’s foremost intellectuals, Tekle Hawariat Tekle Mariyam, wrote Atse Menelik as a tribute to Emperor Menelik II’s leadership during the Battle of Adwa. This rare book, written in Amharic, delves into Menelik’s strategic brilliance, diplomacy, and his ability to unite Ethiopians under a common cause. It remains one of the most detailed Ethiopian-authored narratives on Adwa.

 

 

British explorer and diplomat Augustus Wylde published Abyssinia’s Emperor Menelik II as part of his broader studies on Ethiopia. His book, though written from a European perspective, acknowledges Menelik’s genius and the disciplined nature of the Ethiopian military. It also includes critical reflections on colonial ambitions in Africa and how Ethiopia defied European expectations.

 

 

Though not as old as the other books listed, Paulos Milkias’ work is a rare scholarly analysis that pieces together various historical accounts, Ethiopian oral histories, and global perspectives on the Battle of Adwa. The book serves as a modern reference point for understanding how the victory of Adwa continues to influence African nationalism and postcolonial discourse.

 

 

 

Why These Books Matter

The victory at Adwa was more than just a military triumph—it was a defining moment in African history. These rare books offer crucial insights into Ethiopia’s strategic, political, and cultural resilience. By revisiting these forgotten narratives, we not only honor Ethiopia’s past but also reinforce the importance of indigenous perspectives in historical discourse.

If you’re a historian, collector, or simply an enthusiast of African history, these books are treasures worth exploring. Their rarity makes them difficult to find, but libraries, archives, and private collections worldwide still hold copies waiting to be rediscovered.

The Battle of Adwa remains a testament to Africa’s enduring spirit of resistance against imperialism. While mainstream history books often marginalize African victories, these rare works provide the depth and perspective needed to fully appreciate Ethiopia’s remarkable feat. For those who seek to understand Adwa beyond the surface, these books offer invaluable narratives that stand the test of time.

Have you come across any rare books on the Battle of Adwa? Share your insights in the comments below!