SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

HUMANITIES UNIT
Course Name: History of Ethiopia and the Horn
Course Code: LART 1003/5
Department: Computer science and Engineering
Name: Naol Girma ID: Ugr/31014/15
 1.Importance of change and continuity in historical writing and how some
aspects of the history of Axumite Kingdom and the Zagwe kingdom could
manifest this concept
Change and continuity are foundational concepts in historical analysis, providing
insights into the dynamic nature of human societies over time. Change refers to the
process of transformation or evolution, encompassing shifts in political structures,
social norms, economic systems, cultural practices, and technological advancements.
Continuity, on the other hand, pertains to the persistence or maintenance of certain
features, structures, or traditions across different historical periods, indicating
enduring patterns or elements within a society. Both change and continuity are
essential for understanding historical developments and interpreting how societies
evolve over time.
The concept of change is crucial for historians as it highlights the fluidity and
adaptability of societies in response to internal and external forces. By examining
processes of change, historians can identify turning points, assess causation, and
analyze the factors driving historical transformations. Changes may manifest in
various forms, such as political revolutions, social movements, economic innovations,
technological breakthroughs, cultural shifts, and demographic trends. Studying
change allows historians to discern patterns of development, assess the impact of
historical events, and evaluate the significance of societal transformations in shaping
human history.

Conversely, continuity underscores the persistence or recurrence of certain structures,

institutions, beliefs, or practices across different historical periods. Continuity reflects
the enduring aspects of societies that persist despite changing circumstances,
providing stability, coherence, and a sense of identity over time. Continuity can
manifest in various realms, including political institutions, religious traditions,
cultural norms, linguistic heritage, and social hierarchies. Analyzing continuity allows
historians to trace the roots of contemporary phenomena, identify long-term trends,
and discern the enduring legacies of past societies in shaping present-day realities.

The importance of examining change and continuity in historical writing lies in

providing a nuanced understanding of historical processes and phenomena. By
integrating the study of change and continuity, historians can offer comprehensive
narratives that capture the complexities of human experience across different
historical epochs. Understanding the interplay between change and continuity enables
historians to discern patterns, causation, and significance in historical events, thereby
illuminating the dynamics of continuity and change in shaping the course of human
history.
how some aspects of the history of Axumite Kingdom and the Zagwe kingdom could
manifest this concept :
1. Change in Political Structures:
- Axumite Kingdom: The Axumite Kingdom underwent significant political
changes over time, evolving from a regional power to a dominant empire in the Horn
of Africa. Its political structure transitioned from a decentralized system of local
rulers to a more centralized state under strong monarchs like Ezana.
- Zagwe Kingdom: The establishment of the Zagwe kingdom represented a notable
change in political leadership, as it marked the end of Axumite rule and the
emergence of a new dynasty. The Zagwe rulers introduced changes in governance
structures and administrative practices within the kingdom.
2. Continuity in Religious Practices:
- Axumite Kingdom: Despite political changes, the Axumite Kingdom maintained
continuity in its religious practices, particularly with the adoption of Christianity.
Christianity became the state religion under King Ezana in the 4th century, and Axum
became one of the earliest Christian kingdoms in the world.
- Zagwe Kingdom: The Zagwe kingdom continued the tradition of Christianity
established by the Axumite Kingdom. Churches such as the iconic rock-hewn
churches of Lalibela, built during the Zagwe period, exemplify the continuity of
Christian religious practices and architectural styles from the Axumite era.
3. Change in Economic Systems:
- Axumite Kingdom: The Axumite Kingdom's economic system underwent
significant changes with the expansion of trade networks, particularly with the Roman
Empire and other Mediterranean powers. This facilitated economic growth, urban
development, and cultural exchange.
- Zagwe Kingdom: The Zagwe kingdom inherited and built upon the economic
foundations established by the Axumite Kingdom. While continuing to engage in
long-distance trade, the Zagwe rulers also focused on internal development, investing
in infrastructure projects such as churches and irrigation systems to support
agriculture.
4. Continuity in Cultural Identity:
- Axumite Kingdom: The Axumite Kingdom maintained continuity in its cultural
identity, which was characterized by a blend of indigenous traditions and external
influences. This cultural fusion is evident in Axumite art, architecture, language, and
religious practices, which reflected a synthesis of indigenous and Mediterranean
influences.
- Zagwe Kingdom: The Zagwe kingdom continued to uphold and promote Axumite
cultural traditions while also developing its unique cultural expressions. The rock-
hewn churches of Lalibela, which were constructed during the Zagwe period, serve as
a testament to the continuity of Christian religious practices and architectural styles
from the Axumite era.
5. Change in Social Dynamics:
- Axumite Kingdom: The Axumite Kingdom experienced changes in social
dynamics, including shifts in social hierarchies, labor systems, and demographic
patterns. Urbanization, trade, and the spread of Christianity led to the emergence of
new social classes, economic opportunities, and cultural practices.
- Zagwe Kingdom: The Zagwe kingdom witnessed further changes in social
dynamics, with the consolidation of feudal relationships and the rise of a warrior
aristocracy. The kingdom's expansion and territorial conquests also reshaped social
structures and power dynamics within Ethiopian society.
In summary, the history of the Axumite Kingdom and the Zagwe kingdom illustrates
the interplay between change and continuity in shaping the trajectory of these ancient
Ethiopian civilizations. While undergoing political, economic, and social
transformations, they also maintained certain enduring features, such as religious
practices, cultural identities, and economic systems, which persisted across different
historical periods. Understanding the dynamics of change and continuity enriches our
interpretation of historical developments and provides insights into the complexities
of human societies.
 2. How historical writing in Ethiopia and the Horn has changed overtime, and
how the Rankaean historiography influenced this development particularly in
modern period historical writing in Ethiopia

Historical writing in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa has undergone significant
changes over time, influenced by various factors such as political regimes, religious
institutions, intellectual trends, and external influences. The evolution of historical
writing reflects shifts in methodologies, interpretations, and narratives, as well as
changing perspectives on Ethiopia's place in world history. One key influence on
modern Ethiopian historical writing has been the Rankaean historiography, which
emerged during the 19th and 20th centuries and continues to shape historical
scholarship in Ethiopia today.

1. Pre-Modern Period:
- Prior to the modern period, historical writing in Ethiopia was dominated by
religious texts, hagiographies, and chronicles produced by monastic scholars and
court chroniclers. These works, often written in Ge'ez or Amharic, focused on the
deeds of rulers, saints, and religious figures, emphasizing divine providence and
religious piety.
- Historical narratives served ideological and legitimizing purposes, reinforcing the
authority of ruling elites and promoting the hegemony of the Ethiopian Orthodox
Church. Chronologies and genealogies were central to Ethiopian historical writing,
establishing continuity with biblical and legendary narratives.
- The influence of oral traditions and folkloric narratives also shaped historical
consciousness in Ethiopia, with oral historians (gadla) preserving collective memories
and cultural heritage through storytelling and oral performances.

2. Early Modern Period:

- The early modern period saw the emergence of secular historical writing
influenced by European models of historiography. Ethiopian scholars such as Le'ul
Ras Mengesha Seyoum and Afawarq Gabra Iyasus produced historical works that
combined indigenous traditions with European methodologies.
 - European travelers and missionaries, such as James Bruce and Hiob Ludolf,
contributed to the recording and interpretation of Ethiopian history from an outsider's
perspective, introducing new ideas and methodologies to Ethiopian intellectuals.

3. Rise of Rankaean Historiography:

- The Rankaean historiography, named after the French historian Antoine d'Abbadie
de Saint-Castin, emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of Ethiopia's
modernization and engagement with European intellectual trends. Rankaean
historians sought to apply critical methods of historical inquiry to Ethiopian history,
challenging traditional narratives and interpretations.
- Influenced by positivism, empiricism, and scientific methodologies, Rankaean
historians emphasized the use of archival sources, archaeological evidence, and
linguistic analysis to reconstruct Ethiopia's past. They sought to transcend religious
and mythological interpretations of history, adopting a more secular and critical
approach to historical scholarship.
- Rankaean historiography played a pivotal role in shaping modern Ethiopian
historical writing, introducing new methodologies, perspectives, and narratives that
departed from traditional religious and monarchical interpretations. Scholars such as
Richard Pankhurst, Sergew Hable Selassie, and Bahru Zewde are prominent figures
associated with the Rankaean school of Ethiopian historiography.

4. Contemporary Period:
- In the contemporary period, Ethiopian historical writing continues to evolve,
influenced by global trends in historical scholarship, political developments, and
social changes. There is a growing emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches,
comparative studies, and engagement with diverse voices and perspectives.
- Ethiopian historians are increasingly exploring themes such as gender, ethnicity,
nationalism, and globalization, challenging established narratives and offering new
insights into Ethiopia's complex and diverse history. There is also a renewed interest
in oral history, memory studies, and grassroots perspectives, reflecting a broader
democratization of historical discourse.

In summary, historical writing in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa has undergone
significant transformations over time, from religious and monarchical narratives to
secular and critical approaches influenced by Rankaean historiography. The Rankaean
school played a crucial role in modernizing Ethiopian historical scholarship,
introducing new methodologies, perspectives, and narratives that continue to shape
historical writing in Ethiopia today.

References:
 "The Archaeology of Ancient Ethiopia" by David W. Phillipson
 "The Kingdom of Aksum: A Short History" by Stuart Munro-Hay - Munro-Hay
 "A History of Ethiopia" by Harold G. Marcus
 "The Writing of History in Ethiopia and Eritrea: The Case of Early 19th Century
Ethiopia" by Richard Pankhurst
 "A History of Ethiopian Historiography" by Bahru Zewde
 "Ethiopian Historiography: The Quest for a Modern Writing of History" by
Berhanu Abegaz
 Sergew Hable selassie. Ancient and Medivial Ethiopian History to 1270
 History of Ethiopia and the Horn Approved by Association (Module)

Group Member:
Name: ID:
1. Guda Tiruneh ugr/30603/15
2. Solomon Yehualashet ugr/31250/15
3. Firaol Bekele ugr/30551/15