Haile Selassie's Final Resting Place: A 25-Year Journey

Name: Haile Selassie's Final Resting Place: A 25-Year Journey
Start: 1892-11-05
Location: Unspecified

A Historic Farewell to Emperor Haile Selassie

Haile Selassie: The Impactful Leader

Born on July 23, 1892, Haile Selassie was an influential figure in Ethiopian history and the wider African continent. He became Emperor of Ethiopia in 1930 and was known for his modernizing policies and fierce resistance against Italian invasion. However, his reign was also marked by struggles and challenges that led to his deposition in 1974.

His Death and Aftermath

Emperor Haile Selassie passed away on August 27, 1975, under suspicious circumstances during the communist Derg regime. His death raised numerous concerns, leading to a prolonged absence of a proper burial, as the political climate in Ethiopia was fraught with tensions and crises.

The Long-Awaited Funeral Procession

25 Years Before Resting in Peace

On January 24, 2000, a significant public event took place as the remains of Haile Selassie were finally laid to rest. This solemn occasion marked 25 years of waiting and was a powerful moment of reflection for many Ethiopians. A grand funeral procession wound through Addis Ababa, where thousands gathered to pay their respects to a leader they revered.

The Procession Through Addis Ababa

During the funeral, the streets of Addis Ababa erupted in a wave of mourning and celebration of the Emperor's legacy. The procession featured a military honor guard, and it acknowledged Haile Selassie’s importance as a national and pan-African symbol, as he is often seen as an inspiration for the Rastafarian movement as well.

Fun Fact

Haile Selassie’s Interesting Fact

Did you know that Haile Selassie was honored at the United Nations in 1963? He was the first African leader to address the UN, where he famously called for African unity and independence from colonial powers. This moment highlighted his commitment to the liberation and advancement of African nations.