Want to know what happened Today in History Africa: 26 January? This is 1 historical events that took place today, in the continent of Africa and the African diaspora.
The continent of Africa has an immensely rich history; hidden African history is becoming more accessible as it is finally coming to light. African history, people, culture and books have influenced and inspired the world for time immemorial; it is now time for Africa to shine!
In this post you will learn about the many things that happened today in history in Africa and in the African diaspora like how the Ethiopians defeated the Italians in Dogali.
After reading this post you will know tons of facts about Africa in relation to: The Battle of Dogali, Abyssinia, Ras Alula Engida.
This post is all about what happened Today in History Africa 26 January.
Today in History Africa: 26 January
African Historical Events
Battle of Dogali
On this day, 26 January 1887, the Battle of Dogali occured. It was fought between Ethiopians and Italians.
The Battle of Dogali took place in Dogali, Ethiopia – modern-day Eritrea at a time when Italy was trying to establish a colonial empire in Ethiopia.
At the time Italy had managed to seize Ethiopian villages and the town of Sahati. In doing so Italy violated the treaty signed between Abyssinia (Ethiopia), Egypt and Britain. The governor, Ras Alula Engida, warned Italian forces that their occupation was considered a hostile action. And the Italians only reinforced their presence.
The day before the battle, 25 January, the Ras attacked the Italians at Sahati. Ras Alula Engida successfully besieged the Italians at the cost the lives of hundreds of Ethiopians, in comparison to the Italians who only had 4 injured men.
Following the battle of the 25 January Italy sent for 550 men as reinforcement. And Ras Alula Engida got to know of it through his spies. The next day, before the Italian reinforcement could reach the town of Sahati, the Ethiopians surprised the men at Dogali.
The Battle of Dogali took place on 26 January 1887. The Ethiopians were not as heavily armed as the Italians, who were armed with cannon, modern rifles and machine guns. But the Italians were out-numbered 14 to 1! At the end of The Battle of Dogali the Italians had no more ammunition and all but 80 wounded escapees were killed. Ethiopians defeated Italy at The Battle of Dogali.
In this battle Ethiopians succeeded in stopping the invading Italians from further advancing in their territory. And through many attempts Italy was only ever able to occupy Eritrea and Ethiopia for 2 and 5 years respectfully.
Ethiopia remain the only African state to have never been colonized.
This post was all about what happened today in history Africa 26 January.
Today in History Africa series:
Previous Day: Today in History Africa: 25 January
Next Day: Today in History Africa: 27 January
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Dogali
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