Bahru Zewde is a distinguished historian of Ethiopia and Africa, whose work delves into the intricate histories and societal transformations of the continent. His extensive academic career and editorial work have established him as a pivotal figure in African studies. He primarily explores intellectual elites and diplomatic histories, illuminating crucial moments in the formation of modern Ethiopian society. His analyses offer profound insights into developments that extend beyond mere event narration.
A lively historical account of the rise of Ethiopia's student movement by one of those involved, its role in overthrowing the imperial regime, and its impact on the shaping of the country's future.
The Ethiopian Student Movement, C. 1960-1974
The book offers a vibrant historical narrative detailing the emergence of Ethiopia's student movement, highlighting the author's personal involvement. It explores the movement's significant role in toppling the imperial regime and its lasting influence on the nation's trajectory. Through firsthand experiences, the author sheds light on the struggles and aspirations of the youth that contributed to a pivotal moment in Ethiopia's history.
Exploring a diverse array of Ethiopian topics, this compilation of essays highlights the resilience of the Ethiopian people against the backdrop of their complex history. The author approaches significant issues such as ethno-history, political economy, urban development, and economic history with a sense of quiet patriotism, offering constructive insights into both historical and contemporary challenges facing the nation.
The Fourth Congress of the Association of African historians was held in Addis Ababa in May 2007. These 21 papers are a key selection of the papers presented there, with an introduction by the distinguished historian Bahru Zewde. Given the contemporary salience and the historical depth of the issue of identity, the congress was devoted to that global phenomenon within Africa. The papers explore and analyse the issue of identity in its diverse temporal settings, from its pre-colonial roots to its cotemporary manifestations. The papers are divided into six parts: Pre-Colonial Identities; Colonialism and Identity; Conceptions of the Nation-State and Identity; Identity-Based Conflicts; Migration and Acculturation; and Memory, History and Identity. The authors are scholars from Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Bahru Zewde is Emeritus Professor of History at Addis Ababa University, Executive Director of the Forum for Social Studies, and Vice-President of the Association of African Historians. He was formerly Chairperson of the Department of History and Director of the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University. Amongst his publication is A History of Modern Ethiopia 1855-1991.