Ras Makonnen

Ras Makonnen Wolde Mikael was born on May 8, 1852, in Derefo, Shewa, a first cousin and trusted confidant of Emperor Menelik II. Following the integration of the historic walled city of Harar in 1887, Makonnen was appointed its Governor, establishing modern administration, promoting inter-religious harmony between Christians and Muslims, and constructing hospitals.

A skilled military commander, Makonnen led the Ethiopian vanguard at the Battle of Amba Alagi and commanded central forces during the triumph of Adwa in 1896. As Menelik's chief diplomat, he travelled on state missions to Rome, Paris, and London, attending the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902. He died of typhus in 1906, widely mourned as one of the realm's wisest statesmen.