Early-Modern Ethiopian Migration to Italy and the Question of European Racism Presentation - Essay Example

Early-Modern Ethiopian Migration to Italy and the Question of European Racism This paper will discuss the early-modern relationships of Ethiopia with Italy followed by migration of Ethiopian refugees to Italy and creation of Diaspora. It should be pointed out that Ethiopia is the second largest country of in terms of population residing more than 85 million people. The nation has become one of the fastest growing economies in Africa, largely depending on exports to European and North American countries.

For instance, Ethiopia has improved relationships with Italy (as well) to boost trade ties and business activities (Selamta Report, 2010). As far as the Ethiopia – Italy relationships are concerned, it is worthwhile to highlight that Italy first conquered Ethiopia in 19th century (in 1890s); however, Italy was defeated by forces and thus left the nation. However, Benito Mussolini of Italy once again imposed a war on Ethiopians in 1935 to enhance its control so that it could create a connection between Italian Somaliland and Eritrea.

This time Italy was win-win position because it dethroned Ethiopian rulers; however, the support from British coupled with efforts of Ethiopian forces enabled the nation to regain freedom from Italy. For instance, Ethiopia has remained a centre of conflicts and political turmoil as more and more disputes have observed among 80 different ethnic groups across the nation. The situation becomes tense in later years of independence (1950s) that compelled Ethiopians to migrate to European, North American and Asian continents (Kobel, 2007).

It should also be noted that political violence in past also resulted in negative economic growth because uncertainty and unpredictability keep foreign investors from initiating business ventures in a violence hit nation. The search for employment, life safety and security was, in fact, the major reason behind migration of poor Ethiopians who used both legal and illegal means for migration towards peaceful territories. At present, there are more than 10,000 registered Ethiopians who permanently live across Italy and have created their small Diaspora (Triulzi, 1999).

As far as the racism is concerned, it is justified to pinpoint the fact that Ethiopians, belonging to various ethnic groups, were being discriminated in past when they legally / illegally entered European nations in the quest of better future. Nevertheless, they were discriminated on the basis of culture, religion, cast, creed, race, color and language usually by whites. For instance, the hatred also became evident when they were manipulated / exploited by employers in corporate world, maltreated and name-called by native European citizens.

However, the situation has improved in last few years primarily due to globalisation and Ethiopia has also become part of international community. Indeed, today European and North American economies benefit from agricultural products of Ethiopia and they have been improving their trade ties for mutual benefits and financial gains. Sources Kobel, Paul (2007). Ethiopian Americans. Every Culture [Online] Available at http://www.everyculture.com/multi/Du-Ha/Ethiopian-Americans.html Selamta Report (2010).

Ethiopian History. Selamta [Online] Available at http://www.selamta.net/history.htm Triulzi, Alessandro (1999). Legacy of Bitterness: Ethiopia and Fascist Italy, 1935–1941. The Journal of African History, 40, pp 475-521