According to Emperor Menelik II of Ethiopia, who reigned from 1889 to 1913, European powers had specific plans and intentions regarding Africa during the late 19th century. Menelik expressed his views on European ambitions based on his observations and interactions with European colonial powers during his time. Some key points regarding his perspective on European plans include:
1. Colonization and Expansion:
Menelik believed that European countries aimed to colonize and control as much African territory as possible. He viewed their actions as motivated by greed and a desire for domination over African resources and lands.
2. Resource Exploitation:
Menelik recognized that Europeans were primarily interested in Africa's rich natural resources, including minerals, agricultural products, and other valuable commodities. He believed that their intention was to exploit these resources for their own economic benefit, often at the expense of African societies.
3. Political Influence:
In addition to economic pursuits, Menelik perceived European nations as seeking political influence and power in Africa. They aimed to establish and maintain control over African territories, extend their imperial reach, and assert their political dominance.
4. Spreading Christianity:
Menelik also noted the religious aspect of European ambitions. Christian missionary activities often accompanied colonial endeavors, as European powers sought to spread their religious beliefs and establish their religious influence in Africa.
5. Disregard for African Sovereignty:
Menelik expressed concern over the disregard for African sovereignty and independence displayed by European powers. He felt that European nations failed to respect the autonomy and agency of African societies, treating them as mere pawns in their imperial expansion plans.
6. Imperial Rivalry:
Menelik recognized the rivalries among European powers as they competed for control over African territories. He understood that these rivalries could pose dangers and instability for African nations caught in the middle of power struggles.
7. Ethiopian Resistance:
In light of these perceived European plans, Menelik emphasized the importance of Ethiopian resistance against colonial encroachments. He believed that Ethiopia's sovereignty and independence must be maintained at all costs, leading to his famous victory at the Battle of Adwa in 1896 against Italian forces.
Overall, Menelik II's perspective on European plans reflected his concerns about the exploitative, dominating, and disrespectful intentions of European powers toward Africa. His insights offer a historical viewpoint on the motivations and behaviors of colonial powers during the late 19th century, highlighting the struggles faced by African nations in asserting their own sovereignty and independence.