Source: National Archives & Historic Records of Ethiopian Empire
Monarchy • Historical Archive • 🇪🇹 Ethiopia • 0 views

Zewditu 🇪🇹

Askala Maryam (Known as "Nigiste Negest Zewditu")
Empress of Ethiopia (reigned 1916–1930), Queen of Kings, Daughter of Menelik II
Born Apr 29, 1876 🇪🇹 Enwari, Shewa, Ethiopia
Passed Away Apr 02, 1930 Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Empire
Lifespan 53 years old
0 views
Notice / Correction
"Let peace and righteousness reign over Ethiopia; mercy is the highest jewel in the crown of a sovereign."

Archival Overview

First female head of state of an internationally recognized African country in modern history, reigning as Empress of Ethiopia from 1916 to 1930, renowned for deep religious piety, mercy, and church construction.

Biographical Record

Askala Maryam, crowned Empress Zewditu on February 11, 1917, was the eldest daughter of Emperor Menelik II. Following the deposition of Lij Iyasu in 1916, Zewditu ascended the imperial throne with Ras Tafari Makonnen designated as her heir and Regent.

Zewditu was a devoted custodian of Ethiopian Orthodox tradition, funding the construction of dozens of churches, hospitals, and feeding centers for the poor. Her fourteen-year reign provided crucial constitutional stability, securing Ethiopia's historic admission to the League of Nations in 1923.

Memorial Guestbook & Tributes

0 messages recorded

Leave a Respectful Tribute

No tributes recorded yet. Be the first to leave a message in honor of Zewditu.

Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial
Taeka Negest Ba'eta le Mariam Monastery Imperial Mausoleum
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
GPS: 9.0220, 38.7610
View on Memory Atlas
Archival Standards PastLegacies adheres to strict neutral biographical guidelines and legal standards of remembrance. Next-of-kin may request modifications or removal at any time via our expedited process.