Explain the origin and development of the Ethiopian student movement.

The Ethiopian student movement originated in the early 1960s as a response to the political and social conditions in Ethiopia at the time. The movement was largely influenced by the growing dissatisfaction with the ruling regime of Emperor Haile Selassie, who was seen as autocratic and out of touch with the needs of the Ethiopian people.

The movement gained momentum in the late 1960s and early 1970s, as students began to organize protests and demonstrations against the government. The students were inspired by the wave of student activism that was sweeping across the world at the time, particularly in countries like the United States, France, and Mexico.

The Ethiopian student movement was also fueled by the growing influence of leftist and Marxist ideologies, which were gaining popularity among young people in Ethiopia. Many students saw the ruling regime as oppressive and corrupt, and they believed that radical change was necessary to address the social and economic inequalities in the country.

The movement reached its peak in the early 1970s, with large-scale protests and strikes taking place in major cities across Ethiopia. The government responded with brutal repression, arresting and imprisoning hundreds of students and activists. Despite this crackdown, the student movement continued to grow and evolve, with students forming alliances with other opposition groups and advocating for a more democratic and equitable society.

The Ethiopian student movement played a significant role in the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie in 1974 and the establishment of a military government led by the Derg regime. However, the Derg regime proved to be just as repressive as its predecessor, leading to further protests and resistance from students and other opposition groups.

Overall, the Ethiopian student movement was a key catalyst for political change in Ethiopia, inspiring a new generation of activists and laying the groundwork for the democratic movements that would emerge in the country in the decades to come.

Origin and Development of the Ethiopian Student Movement

Origins (pre-1935):

- Established schools under religious institutions and missionary societies
- Emergence of a nascent intelligentsia influenced by foreign ideas and reformist movements
- Limited opportunities for higher education and employment

Italian Occupation (1935-1941):

- Suppression of educational institutions and resistance to Italian rule
- Formation of underground student cells and the dissemination of anti-colonial propaganda

Post-Occupation (1941-1960s):

- Re-establishment of universities and expansion of educational opportunities
- Growth of student activism against perceived government corruption and authoritarianism
- Formation of student organizations such as the Ethiopian University Student Union (EUSU)

Derg Revolution (1974-1991):

- Radicalization of the student movement due to the repressive policies of the military junta
- Mass demonstrations and protests against government tyranny
- Involvement in armed resistance against the Derg regime

Transition to Democracy (1991-present):

- Legalization of student organizations
- Increased political involvement in the context of democratization
- Emergence of diverse student groups with varying ideological orientations
- Continued activism on issues of human rights, political reform, and economic inequality

Key Characteristics:

- Strong sense of national identity and patriotism
- Articulation of demands through protests, demonstrations, and petitions
- Influence on public opinion and political discourse
- Legacy of courage and activism in the face of oppression
- Challenges include internal divisions, government surveillance, and limited institutional support

Contemporary Issues:

- Access to quality education and employment
- University autonomy and academic freedom
- Gender equality and women's empowerment
- Environmental sustainability
- Regional integration and pan-Africanism