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Changes: Ethiopians (Age of Empires II)

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{{For|civilization in [[Age of Empires II HD: The African Kingdoms]]|other uses|Ethiopians}}
 
{{Civilization tabs}}
  
{{Civilization tabs}}
 
{{Infobox civilization
  
{{Infobox civilization
 
|Name = Ethiopians
  
|Name = Ethiopians
 
|Image = CivIcon-Ethiopians.png
  
|Image = CivIcon-Ethiopians.png
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|Intro = {{AoE2Icon|Africa}} ''[[Age of Empires II HD: The African Kingdoms|The African Kingdoms]]''
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|Intro = {{2icons|The African Kingdoms}}
 
|Arch = African
  
|Arch = African
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|Continent = Africa
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|Continent = Africa (east)
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|Focus = [[Archer units (Age of Empires II)|Archers]]<br />[[Siege weapons (Age of Empires II)|Siege weapons]]
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|Focus = [[Archer unit (Age of Empires II)|Archers]]
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|Unit = {{AoE2Icon|Shotel Warrior}} [[Shotel Warrior]]
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|Unit = {{2icons|Shotel Warrior}}
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|Tech = {{AoE2Icon|Unique1}} [[Royal Heirs]]<br/>{{AoE2Icon|Unique2}} [[Torsion Engines]]
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|Tech = {{2icons|Royal Heirs}}<br />{{2icons|Torsion Engines}}
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|Pre-DE jingle = {{Audio|Ethiopians jingle AoE2.ogg}}
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|Old Jingle = {{Audio|Ethiopians jingle AoE2.ogg}}
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|DE jingle = {{Audio|Ethiopians jingle AoE2 DE.ogg}}
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|Jingle = {{Audio|Ethiopians jingle AoE2 DE.ogg}}
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|Theme = {{Audio|Ethiopians theme AoE2 DE.ogg}}
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}}{{Quote|Relive the glory of the once mighty Aksumite Empire and rule the Red Sea. Launch military expeditions into the Arabian peninsula and far beyond to hold a firm grip on your trading partners. Lead forces of skilled archers, devastating siege engines, and hard-hitting Shotel Warriors to bloody victories. Will your dynasty stand strong against internal conflicts or will your successor already be preparing your funeral?|Description<ref name="ref">https://www.forgottenempires.net/age-of-empires-ii-definitive-edition/civilizations/ethiopians</ref>}}
  
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}}
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[[File:Ethiopians theme AoE2 DE.ogg|268px|right|thumb|The Ethiopians' civilization music theme in the ''Definitive Edition'']]
  
  ⚫
{{Quote|Relive the glory of the once mighty Aksumite Empire and rule the Red Sea. Launch military expeditions into the Arabian peninsula and far beyond to hold a firm grip on your trading partners. Lead forces of skilled archers, devastating siege engines, and hard-hitting Shotel Warriors to bloody victories. Will your dynasty stand strong against internal conflicts or will your successor already be preparing your funeral?|Description<ref name="ref">https://www.forgottenempires.net/age-of-empires-ii-definitive-edition/civilizations/ethiopians</ref>}}
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The '''Ethiopians''' are an African [[Civilizations (Age of Empires II)|civilization]] introduced ''[[Age of Empires II HD: The African Kingdoms]]''. They focus on [[Archer units (Age of Empires II)|archers]] and [[Siege weapons (Age of Empires II)|siege weapons]].
 +
The '''Ethiopians''' are an African [[Civilization (Age of Empires II)|civilization]] introduced ''[[Age of Empires II HD: The African Kingdoms]]'' based on the Aksumite and Zagwe kingdoms in the [[wikipedia:Horn of Africa|Horn of Africa]]. They focus on [[Archer unit (Age of Empires II)|archers]], more accurately [[Foot archer unit (Age of Empires II)|foot archers]].
   
  +
The Ethiopians [[Ethiopians (Age of Empires III)|as a civilization]] also appear as a playable civilization in the ''[[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition - The African Royals]]'' expansion.
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The Ethiopians were historically known for the Aksumite and Zagwe kingdoms, which were dedicated followers of Orthodox Christianity and Judaism. Their architecture was the best in the region, and many stelae and other tall monuments exist to this day. For most of the Middle Ages, Ethiopian kingdoms were defensive – not offensive – powers. They protected their lands from various outsiders (Himyarite, Arab, Portuguese, among others), and kept close watch of movements in their own region. To highlight this, the Ethiopian [[team bonus]] grants extra [[Line of Sight]] for [[tower]]s and [[Outpost (Age of Empires II)|Outposts]].
  
   
  +
== Characteristics ==
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Ethiopian kingdoms were positioned in a vital area - on the Horn of Africa at the narrow entrance to the Red Sea. This made Aksum a vital center for trade on the Indian Ocean; goods and materials from Europe, India, Arabia, and even China went through Ethiopian ports. Through the ages, they benefited from a regular influx of resources from outside the empire. This is represented in-game with the Ethiopians gaining {{resources|food = 100}} and {{resources|gold = 100}} for free whenever they advance an [[Age]].
  
  ⚫
=== Unique unit ===
  ⚫
: {{2icons|Shotel Warrior}}: Rapidly deployed [[Infantry unit (Age of Empires II)|infantry]] with high attack but low [[armor]] and [[hit points]].
   
  ⚫
=== Unique technologies ===
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The Ethiopians were known to be mercenaries for fast deployments to other kingdoms (particularly Egypt) and were known to be very fierce in battle, but underequipped. To highlight the Ethiopian army, the [[Shotel Warrior]], a powerful but fragile infantry unit, can be created quickly in the [[Castle (Age of Empires II)|Castle]]. Because historically, spears and polearms were a staple of most Ethiopian armies, the Ethiopians get the [[Pikeman (Age of Empires II)|Pikemen]] upgrade at no cost.
  
  +
* {{2icons|Royal Heirs}}: Shotels and Camel units receive -3 damage from [[Mounted unit (Age of Empires II)|mounted units]].
  ⚫
* {{2icons|Torsion Engines}}: Increases the [[Area of Effect|blast radius]] of [[Siege Workshop (Age of Empires II)|Siege Workshop]] units.
   
  ⚫
=== Civilization bonuses ===
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Along with spears and shotel swords, the bow and arrow were important weapons in Ethiopia, and archers formed the backbone of the kingdom's army. Arabs referred to East African archers as [[Archers of the Eyes]] to reflect their expert marksmanship, letting loose showers of arrows aimed at the eyes of their enemies. To reflect these facts, Ethiopian archers fire faster.
  
  ⚫
* The [[Archer (Age of Empires II)|Archer]] line fires 18% faster.
  ⚫
* Receive {{resources|food = +100|gold = +100}} whenever a new [[Age]] is reached.
  ⚫
* The [[Pikeman (Age of Empires II)|Pikeman]] upgrade is free.
   
  ⚫
=== Team bonus ===
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Finally, the Ethiopians are one of the few civilizations to have preserved some of the lost technology from the [[Classical Age]] after the barbarians destroyed the Roman Empire. They were also exposed through trade to many forms of technology from all over the world. To highlight this, the Ethiopians are the only civilization to access all [[Siege weapons (Age of Empires II)|siege weapons]], and have a [[Torsion Engines|technology]] that increases the [[Area of Effect|blast radius]] for their siege weapons.
  
  ⚫
: [[Outpost (Age of Empires II)|Outposts]] +3 [[Line of Sight]] and [[stone]] cost removed.
   
 
== Overview ==
  
== Overview ==
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The Ethiopian [[Archery Range (Age of Empires II)|Archery Range]] is decent at best but still one of their greatest assets since their [[Archer (Age of Empires II)|Archers]] get all upgrades and fire faster. Their [[Infantry units (Age of Empires II)|infantry]] is good, lacking the [[Champion]] but getting the [[Shotel Warrior]] instead. Their [[Cavalry units (Age of Empires II)|cavalry]] is weak, lacking key units and technologies. Their [[Ships (Age of Empires II)|navy]] is below average as well, lacking the [[Fast Fire Ship]], [[Heavy Demolition Ship]], and [[Elite Cannon Galleon]]. Their [[Monk (Age of Empires II)|Monks]] do not get [[Block Printing]] and [[Redemption]], however they are generally worthy. Their [[Siege weapons (Age of Empires II)|siege weapons]] are a big selling point for the Ethiopians. They are the only civilization to get all the units available in the [[Siege Workshop (Age of Empires II)|Siege Workshop]], and have a [[Torsion Engines|unique technology]] that makes the siege engines far more dangerous by increasing their [[Area of Effect]]. Their [[Defensive structure|defenses]] are a bit underwhelming, but their economy is strong, only missing [[Crop Rotation]].
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The Ethiopians specialize in foot archers, which are one of their greatest assets, since their [[Archer (Age of Empires II)|Archers]] get all upgrades and fire faster. Their [[Siege weapon (Age of Empires II)|siege weapons]] are another big selling point in the late game. They are the only civilization to get all the units available in the [[Siege Workshop (Age of Empires II)|Siege Workshop]] (excluding the regional [[Armored Elephant (Age of Empires II)|Armored Elephant]] unit), and have a [[Torsion Engines|unique technology]] that makes the siege engines far more dangerous by increasing their [[Area of Effect]]. Their team bonus allows them to create more Outposts with more Line of Sight, granting them more vision of the map. Their [[Infantry unit (Age of Empires II)|infantry]] are good, lacking the [[Champion]], but getting the [[Shotel Warrior (Age of Empires II)|Shotel Warrior]] instead. In addition, the Ethiopians get the Pikeman upgrade for free. Their [[Ship (Age of Empires II)|navy]] is average as well, lacking the [[Fast Fire Ship]], [[Heavy Demolition Ship]], and [[Elite Cannon Galleon]], but possessing fully upgraded [[Galleon (Age of Empires II)|Galleons]]. Their [[Monk (Age of Empires II)|Monks]] get almost all of the technologies, but they do not get the important [[Block Printing]] or [[Redemption]] technologies. Their [[Defensive structure|defenses]] are somewhat average, and their economy is solid, with a free {{resources|food = +100|gold = +100}} after every age advance, only lacking [[Crop Rotation (Age of Empires II)|Crop Rotation]].
  +
  +
Their [[Cavalry unit (Age of Empires II)|cavalry]] are weak, lacking [[Bloodlines]] and [[Plate Barding Armor]]. Even with Royal Heirs, their Camel Riders end up performing barely any better against cavalry while performing worse against foot units. Additionally, the Ethiopians do not have a long term economic bonus, so they can fall behind after their initial power spike.
  +
  +
Overall, the Ethiopians can be best described as a "glass cannon" civilization. While the Ethiopians lack key important upgrades for their melee units, they make up for it with their strong firepower with their foot archers and siege weapons.
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  ⚫
== Changelog ==
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=== {{2icons|TAK}} ===
  ⚫
* With [[Patch 4.8 (Age of Empires II)|patch 4.8]]:
  ⚫
** [[Skirmisher (Age of Empires II)|Skirmishers]] no longer benefit from the faster firing civilization bonus.
  ⚫
** [[Arrowslits (Age of Empires II)|Arrowslits]] was removed from the technology tree.
  ⚫
** [[Shotel Warrior (Age of Empires II)|Shotel Warrior]]s attack against [[Armor class: Standard building|standard buildings]] reduced by 2 (+2 (standard)/+3 (Elite) → 0/+1).
  +
  +
=== {{2icons|RotR}} ===
  ⚫
* With [[Patch 5.7 (Age of Empires II)|patch 5.7]], the Halberdier upgrade is no longer free.
  +
  +
=== {{2icons|DE}} ===
  ⚫
* With [[update 36906]], [[Scorpion]]s' projectile collision size with [[Torsion Engines]] was increased (0.3 → 0.5 tiles).
  +
* With [[update 42848]]:
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** [[Scorpion]]s' projectile collision size with [[Torsion Engines]] was decreased (0.5 → 0.4 tiles), though it is still higher than pre-update 36906.
  +
** [[Shotel Warrior (Age of Empires II)|Shotel Warriors']] gold cost was reduced ({{resources|gold = 35}} → {{resources|gold = 30}}).
  +
  +
=== {{2icons|DotD}} ===
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* With [[update 56005]], non-Elite Shotel Warriors have more hit points (40 → 45), and the Elite Shotel Warrior upgrade costs less ({{resources|food = 1,200|gold = 550}} → {{resources|food = 900|gold = 450}}).
  +
  +
=== {{2icons|DoI}} ===
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* No longer receive bonus resources at the game start in games with Feudal or later starting age.
  +
* With [[update 81058]], their team bonus removes the stone cost of Outposts (on top of their +3 Line of Sight), but no longer gives Towers +3 Line of Sight.
   
 
== Campaign appearances ==
  
== Campaign appearances ==
 
The Ethiopians have a campaign devoted to their civilization: [[Yodit]]. They also appear in:
  
The Ethiopians have a campaign devoted to their civilization: [[Yodit]]. They also appear in:
   
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=== [[Sundjata]] ===
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=== {{2icons|Sundjata|30}} ===
 
* [[The Sting of the Scorpion]]
  
* [[The Sting of the Scorpion]]
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** {{color|cyan|'''Niger'''}}
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** {{color|cyan|'''Niger'''}} - Enemy
 
* [[Blood on the River Bank]]
  
* [[Blood on the River Bank]]
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** '''{{color|red|Sumanguru}}'''
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** {{color|red|Sumanguru}} - Enemy
   
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=== [[Francisco de Almeida]] ===
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=== {{2icons|Francisco de Almeida|30}} ===
 
* [[Ruins of Empires]]
  
* [[Ruins of Empires]]
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** '''{{Color|red|Kilwa}}'''
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** {{Color|red|Kilwa}} - Ally → Enemy
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** '''{{Color|orange|Bantu}}'''
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** {{Color|orange|Bantu}} - Enemy
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** '''{{Color|purple|Bantu}}'''
  
   
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== Characteristics ==
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=== {{2icons|Yodit|30}} ===
  +
This campaign is played as the Ethiopians.
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=== Unique unit ===
  
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* [[Path of Exile]]
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: {{AoE2Icon|Shotel Warrior}} [[Shotel Warrior]]: Rapidly deployed [[Infantry units (Age of Empires II)|infantry]] with high attack but low [[Hit points|HP]]
  
  +
** {{Color|red|Gidajan}} - Enemy
−  
  +
** {{Color|cyan|Fort in the Mountains}} - Enemy
⚫
=== Unique technologies ===
  
  +
** {{Color|orange|Camp in the Forest}} - Enemy
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: {{AoE2Icon|Unique1}} [[Royal Heirs]]: Halves the creation time of Shotel Warriors.
  
  +
** {{Color|yellow|Aksum}} - Ally
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: {{AoE2Icon|Unique2}} [[Torsion Engines]]: Increases the [[Area of Effect|blast radius]] of [[Siege Workshop (Age of Empires II)|Siege Workshop]] units.
  
  +
* [[The Right Partner]]
−  
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** {{Color|orange|Hostile Beja Tribes}} - Enemy
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=== Civilization bonuses ===
  
  +
** {{Color|gray|Raiders}} - Enemy
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* The [[Archer (Age of Empires II)|Archer]] line fires {{tt|18%|the tech tree incorrectly states that it's only 15%}} faster.
  
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** {{Color|purple|Nobatia}} - Ally → Potential Enemy
⚫
* Receive {{resources|food = +100}} and {{resources|gold = +100}} whenever a new [[Age]] is reached.
  
  +
** {{Color|red|Beja Tribes}} - Ally
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* The [[Pikeman (Age of Empires II)|Pikeman]] upgrade is free.
  
  +
* [[A Fallen Crown]]
−  
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** {{Color|red|Dagnajan}} - Enemy
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=== Team bonus ===
  
  +
** {{Color|red|Aksumite Empire}} - Enemy
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: [[Tower]]s and [[Outpost (Age of Empires II)|Outposts]] have +3 [[Line of Sight]].
  
  +
** {{Color|cyan|Begemder}} - Enemy
−  
  +
** {{Color|gray|Orthodox Monks}} - Enemy
⚫
== Changelog ==
  
  +
** {{Color|yellow|Alodian Traders}} - Neutral → Potential Ally
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=== ''The African Kingdoms'' ===
  
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** {{Color|orange|Darginda}} - Ally
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* Initially, [[Skirmisher (Age of Empires II)|Skirmishers]] benefit from the civilization bonus and fire faster. With patch 4.8, that was removed.
  
  +
* [[Broken Stelae]]
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* Initially can research [[Arrowslits]]. With patch 4.8, it was removed from the technology tree.
  
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** {{Color|red|Gidajan}} - Enemy
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* Initially, [[Shotel Warrior]]s have +2 (+3 for Elite) attack against [[Armor class: Standard building|standard buildings]]. With patch 4.8, that bonus was reduced to +1 for Elite (0 for non-Elite).
  
  ⚫
** {{Color|purple|Aksumite Empire}} - Enemy
⚫
* The [[Halberdier (Age of Empires II)|Halberdier]] upgrade is free.
  
  +
** {{Color|yellow|Ethiopian Rebels}} - Ally
−  
  +
** {{Color|grey|Local Tribes}} - Ally
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=== ''Rise of the Rajas'' ===
  
  +
* [[Welcome Home]]
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* With [[Patch 5.7 (Age of Empires II)|patch 5.7]], the free Halberdier upgrade was removed.
  
  +
** {{Color|red|Gidajan}} - Enemy
  +
** {{Color|purple|Aksum (Gidajan)}} - Enemy
  +
** {{Color|green|Aksum (Yodit)}} - Ally
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** {{Color|blue|Locals}} - Ally
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** {{Color|grey|Aksum}} - Ally
   
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=== {{2icons|Victors and Vanquished (campaign)|30}} ===
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=== ''Definitive Edition'' ===
  
  +
* {{2icons|Ironside|30}}
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* [[Torsion Engines]]: with [[update 36906]], [[Scorpion]] projectile collision size was increased from 0.3 to 0.5 tiles. With [[update 42848]], it was decreased to 0.4 tiles.
  
  +
** {{Color|green|Kutama}} - Enemy
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* [[Shotel Warrior]]: With [[update 42848]], [[Shotel Warrior]] price was reduced from 35 to 30 gold.
  
   
 
== In-game dialogue language ==
  
== In-game dialogue language ==
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{{stub}}
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{{Expand section}}
 
Ethiopian units speak [[wikipedia:Amharic|Amharic]], a South Semitic language (related to the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Arabic languages) written with the [[wikipedia:Geʽez script|Geʽez script]] descended from Egyptian hieroglyphs and ancient South Arabian script.
  
Ethiopian units speak [[wikipedia:Amharic|Amharic]], a South Semitic language (related to the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Arabic languages) written with the [[wikipedia:Geʽez script|Geʽez script]] descended from Egyptian hieroglyphs and ancient South Arabian script.
 
;[[Villager (Age of Empires II)|Villager]]
  
;[[Villager (Age of Empires II)|Villager]]
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Select 3 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Select 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 3''' ''Zgju əne'' (ዝግጁእኔ) – I'm ready (literally - "Ready I am")
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Select 3 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Select 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 3''' ''Zgju əne'' (ዝግጁእኔ) – I'm ready (literally - "Ready I am")
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Select 4 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Select 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 4''' ''Təzazoci zigiju'' (ትእዛዞጭ ዝግጁ) – Ready for orders (literally "Order-ready")
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Select 4 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Select 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 4''' ''Təzazoci zigiju'' (ትእዛዞጭ ዝግጁ) – Ready for orders (literally "Order-ready")
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 1 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 1 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 1''' ''Āwo'' (አዎ) – Yes
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 1 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 1 AoE2.ogg}} '''Task 1''' ''Āwo'' (አዎ) – Yes
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Female Move 2'''
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Female Task 2'''
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Male Move 2'''
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Male Task 2'''
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 3 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 3''' ''Əshi'' (እሺ) – All right
 +
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 3 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Task 3''' ''Əshi'' (እሺ) – All right
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 4 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 4''' ''Afäts'ämäwalähu'' (አፈጸመዋለሁ) – I will do
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Task 4 AoE2.ogg}} {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Task 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Task 4''' ''Afäts'ämäwalähu'' (አፈጸመዋለሁ) – I will do
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Build AoE2.ogg}} '''Female Build''' ''Gnbänyani'' (ግንበኛን) – Mason (female)
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Female Build AoE2.ogg}} '''Female Build''' ''Gnbänyani'' (ግንበኛን) – Mason (female)
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Build AoE2.ogg}} '''Male Build''' ''Gnbänya'' (ግንበኛ) – Mason (male)
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Villager Male Build AoE2.ogg}} '''Male Build''' ''Gnbänya'' (ግንበኛ) – Mason (male)
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Move 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 3'''
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Move 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 3'''
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Attack 1 AoE2.ogg}} '''Attack 1''' ''Wäga!'' (ወጋ!) – Attack!
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Attack 1 AoE2.ogg}} '''Attack 1''' ''Wäga!'' (ወጋ!) – Attack!
−
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Attack 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Attack 2''' Ə''nwagalän!'' (እንዋጋለን!) – Let us attack!
 +
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Attack 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Attack 2''' ''Ənwagalän!'' (እንዋጋለን!) – Let us attack!
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Attack 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Attack 3'''
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Soldier Attack 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Attack 3'''
 
;[[Monk (Age of Empires II)|Monk]]
  
;[[Monk (Age of Empires II)|Monk]]
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians Monk Move 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 3'''
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Monk Move 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 3'''
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Monk Move 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 4''' ''Afäts'ämäwalähu'' (አፈጸመዋለሁ) – I will do
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians Monk Move 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 4''' ''Afäts'ämäwalähu'' (አፈጸመዋለሁ) – I will do
−
;[[King]]
 +
;[[King (Age of Empires II)|King]]
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Select 1 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 1'''
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Select 1 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 1'''
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Select 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 2'''
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Select 2 AoE2.ogg}} '''Select 2'''
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* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Move 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 3'''
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Move 3 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 3'''
 
* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Move 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 4'''
  
* {{Audio|Ethiopians King Move 4 AoE2.ogg}} '''Move 4'''
−
<!-- Not sure where this one belongs, so leaving it here just in case
  
−
=== Military ===
  
−
* ''Ti'izazi minidi newi?'' (ት'እዛዝ ምንድ ነው? – Your order?
  
−
* ''Inidaliki'' (እንዳልክ) – As you say
  
−
-->
  
   
 
== AI player names ==
  
== AI player names ==
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* '''Abba Guba''' (አባ ጉባ): One of the Nine Saints of Ethiopia, who were important in the growth of Christianity in Ethiopia.
  
* '''Abba Guba''' (አባ ጉባ): One of the Nine Saints of Ethiopia, who were important in the growth of Christianity in Ethiopia.
  +
* '''Abuna Frumentius''' (ፍሬምናጦስ): See ''Frumentius.
 
* '''Amda Seyon''' (ዐምደ ጽዮን): An Ethiopian emperor from the Solomonic dynasty; reigns 1314–1344.
  
* '''Amda Seyon''' (ዐምደ ጽዮን): An Ethiopian emperor from the Solomonic dynasty; reigns 1314–1344.
 
* '''Amir Habbuba''' (አሚር ሓብቡባ): Amir (king) ruled the ancient walled city of Harar (969–1000).
  
* '''Amir Habbuba''' (አሚር ሓብቡባ): Amir (king) ruled the ancient walled city of Harar (969–1000).
Line 147: Line 184:
 
* '''[[Yodit]]''' (ጉዲት): Yodit was a semi-legendary non-Christian queen (flourished c. 960) who laid waste to Axum and its countryside, destroyed churches and monuments, and attempted to exterminate the members of the ruling Axumite dynasty. Her deeds are recorded in the oral tradition and mentioned incidentally in various historical accounts.
  
* '''[[Yodit]]''' (ጉዲት): Yodit was a semi-legendary non-Christian queen (flourished c. 960) who laid waste to Axum and its countryside, destroyed churches and monuments, and attempted to exterminate the members of the ruling Axumite dynasty. Her deeds are recorded in the oral tradition and mentioned incidentally in various historical accounts.
 
* '''Zara Yaqob''' (ዘርአ:ያዕቆብ): Personal name of Kwestantinos I, emperor of Ethiopia from the Solomonic dynasty and one of the greatest rulers in Ethiopia's history; lived 1399–1468.
  
* '''Zara Yaqob''' (ዘርአ:ያዕቆብ): Personal name of Kwestantinos I, emperor of Ethiopia from the Solomonic dynasty and one of the greatest rulers in Ethiopia's history; lived 1399–1468.
  +
  ⚫
== History ==
  +
{{Quote|Ethiopia was mentioned for the first time around 1200BC in the [[Greeks (Age of Empires)|Greek]] epic poem the [[wikipedia:Iliad|Iliad]], although the term referred to the entire region south of Egypt. Starting in the 4th century AD, "Ethiopia" was used more specifically to refer to the [[wikipedia:Kingdom of Aksum|kingdom of Aksum]] and its successor states, situated in the present-day countries of Eritrea and northern Ethiopia. The 15th century Book of Aksum, a collection of historical documents, explained this connotation to Ityopp'is, son of the biblical Cush and legendary founder of the city of Aksum.<br />[[File:History ethiopians.png|450px|center]]<br />The kingdom of Aksum (AD 100 – 940) was a major naval and trading power. Located at the mouth of the Red Sea, the empire profited from its central position in the maritime network between the [[Romans (Age of Empires)|Roman Empire]], India and Arabia. The port of Adulis was an international trade hub for silk, spices, glass, gold and ivory. Although elephants have become an endangered species in the region, herds were abundant during the Middle Ages and, consequently, ivory was a major export product. Aksum's commercial dealings were at the same time a primary motivation and source for military campaigns: from the 3rd century onwards, the kingdom regularly sent expeditions to the Arabian Peninsula and in the 4th century, King [[wikipedia:Ezana of Axum|Ezana]] conquered the neighboring kingdom of Kush. Surpassed only by Rome, [[Persians (Age of Empires II)|Persia]] and China, Ethiopia was one of the greatest world powers of that time.<br /><br />At first, the Aksumites practiced a polytheistic religion. Most remarkably, they erected grand burial monuments, such as large stelae (up to 33 metres high) and tombs. Under the rule of King Ezana, Aksum adopted Christianity, which would remain the state religion throughout the Middle Ages. Nevertheless, both Jews and Muslims enjoyed toleration throughout the region. In AD 615, Ethiopia even gave shelter to some of the early followers of the prophet Muhammad, and would maintain generally good relations with Islamic powers until the 16th century.<br /><br />The decline of the Aksumite empire was a slow process that began in the 8th century and was caused by several factors. First, the rise of Islamic states in the Arabian Peninsula and Northern Africa marked the end of Aksum's dominance over trade in the Red Sea. Second, climate change and deforestation reduced agricultural output. Finally, a civil war around AD 940 weakened the kingdom, allowing Queen [[Yodit]] to kill the last Aksumite king. Historians still debate over whether this queen is to be seen as the founder of the [[wikipedia:Zagwe dynasty|Zagwe dynasty]] (AD 940- 1270) or whether this kingdom was established only after [[wikipedia:Mara Takla Haymanot|Mara Takla Haymanot]] overthrew [[wikipedia:Kingdom of Semien#Gideons dynasty|her descendants]] in AD 1137. Likewise, the following history of the Zagwe remains shrouded in mystery.<br /><br />Sources on the subject of the successor state of the Zagwe Dynasty are more common. In AD 1270, a local nobleman, [[Yekuno Amlak]], questioned the legitimacy of the ruling king and usurped the throne, thus founding the long-lasting Solomonic dynasty. Through military expeditions and administrative reformation, Emperor Amda Seyon (AD 1314-1344) managed to consolidate the dynasty's power and greatly expand Ethiopian territory. As with the Aksumite kingdom, the Ethiopian army consisted mainly of archers and infantry with spears and swords. Perhaps the most characteristic weapon was the Shotel, a curved sword used to dismount cavalry or to reach around shields.<br /><br />At the end of the Middle Ages, the Solomonic dynasty, surrounded by Islamic states, sought to make contact with European kingdoms. After the failure of the Crusades, Europe was looking for Christian allies. Pursuing the legend of Prester John, a wealthy Christian king rumored to reign in the east, a [[Portuguese (Age of Empires II)|Portugese]]{{sic}} expedition reached Ethiopia in AD 1490. This proved to be an important meeting, as the Adal Sultanate invaded and conquered most of Ethiopia four decades later. In response, Emperor Dawit II requested the help of the Portuguese, who sent 400 musketeers. Together, they were able to repel the invaders, and until the late 20th century the Solomonic dynasty would remain in control.|<ref name="ref" />}}
   
 
== Trivia ==
  
== Trivia ==
⚫
* The Ethiopians are the only civilization that has access to all units and their upgrades at the [[Siege Workshop (Age of Empires II)|Siege Workshop]].
  
 
* The user interface image displays a coin from the British Museum Collection<ref>http://worldcoincatalog.com/AC/C/Aksum/333-356CE-Ezana/333-356CE-Ezana.htm</ref><ref>https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/C_1989-0518-41</ref> minted by [[wikipedia:Ezana of Axum|Ezana]], who was ruler of the Kingdom of Aksum, an ancient kingdom centered in what is now Eritrea and the Tigray Region of northern Ethiopia.
  
* The user interface image displays a coin from the British Museum Collection<ref>http://worldcoincatalog.com/AC/C/Aksum/333-356CE-Ezana/333-356CE-Ezana.htm</ref><ref>https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/C_1989-0518-41</ref> minted by [[wikipedia:Ezana of Axum|Ezana]], who was ruler of the Kingdom of Aksum, an ancient kingdom centered in what is now Eritrea and the Tigray Region of northern Ethiopia.
  ⚫
* The Ethiopians are the only civilization that has access to all non-regional units and their upgrades at the [[Siege Workshop (Age of Empires II)|Siege Workshop]] (the [[Armored Elephant (Age of Empires II)|Armored Elephant]] and [[Siege Elephant (Age of Empires II)|Siege Elephant]] are exclusively South Asian regional units).
⚫
* The African architecture set shared with the [[Malians]] is based on the [[wikipedia:Sudano-Sahelian architecture|Sudano-Sahelian architecture]], with elements of [[wikipedia:Architecture of Ethiopia|Aksumite architecture]] in the Imperial Age.
  
  +
* The Ethiopians are one of the two civilizations that has access to [[Heavy Camel Rider]], but not [[Bloodlines]] (the other being the [[Byzantines (Age of Empires II)|Byzantines]]).
⚫
* Due to sharing the same architecture style as the Malians and despite being Christians, the Ethiopians' [[Monastery (Age of Empires II)|Monastery]] is designed after a mosque rather than a Christian church. This is a quirk they shared with the [[Byzantines]] and [[Cumans]] before the former's architecture style was changed in the ''[[Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition|Definitive Edition]]''.
  
  +
* Historically the Ethiopians had African war elephants; indeed, Axumite general Abraha's army included hundreds of war elephants. However the Ethiopians in-game do not have access to the [[Battle Elephant]], Armored Elephant, or Siege Elephant.
⚫
* When [[Ensemble Studios]] still existed, one of the original designers, Sandy Petersen, hinted that he once proposed an ''Age of Africa'' expansion sequel, with Ethiopians as one of the planned civilizations. Unlike the Ethiopians from ''The African Kingdoms'', his version of Ethiopians was a defensive-oriented civilization with unique Monk and ranged infantry.<ref>http://aok.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/aokcgi/display.cgi?action=st&fn=3&tn=38338&f=,,,&st=125</ref>
  
  ⚫
* The African architecture set shared with the [[Malians (Age of Empires II)|Malians]] is based on the [[wikipedia:Sudano-Sahelian architecture|Sudano-Sahelian architecture]], with elements of [[wikipedia:Architecture of Ethiopia|Aksumite architecture]] in the Imperial Age.
−
* The Ethiopians are the last civilization that lacks Crop Rotation.
  
  ⚫
* Due to sharing the same architecture style as the Malians and despite being Christians, the Ethiopians' [[Monastery (Age of Empires II)|Monastery]] is designed after a mosque rather than a Christian church. This is a quirk they shared with the [[Byzantines (Age of Empires II)|Byzantines]] and [[Cumans]] before the former's architecture style was changed in the ''[[Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition|Definitive Edition]]''.
⚫
* In ''[[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition]]'', Ethiopians are featured as the ally player representing the Adal Sultanate in the [[Christopher Da Gama's Expedition]] scenario of the [[Historical Battles (Age of Empires III)|Historical Battles]].
  
  ⚫
* When [[Ensemble Studios]] still existed, one of the original designers, [[Sandy Petersen]], hinted that he once proposed an ''Age of Africa'' expansion sequel, with Ethiopians as one of the planned civilizations. Unlike the Ethiopians from ''The African Kingdoms'', his version of Ethiopians was a defensive-oriented civilization with unique Monk and ranged infantry.<ref>http://aok.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/aokcgi/display.cgi?action=st&fn=3&tn=38338&f=,,,&st=125</ref>
−  
  +
* The following [[Hero (Age of Empires II)|heroes]] available in the [[Scenario Editor (Age of Empires II)|Scenario Editor]] are themed on the Ethiopians: [[Archer of the Eyes]] (based on Nubians who are represented by Ethiopians but playable in the campaigns only as Saracens), [[Abraha Elephant]], [[Dagnajan]], [[Gidajan]], [[Princess Yodit]], [[Yekuno Amlak]], and [[Yodit]].
⚫
== History ==
  
  +
* Until the release of the [[Bohemians]], the Ethiopians were the last civilization that lacked Crop Rotation (unlike ''[[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition]]'' where both they and the [[Hausa]] have Crop Rotation).
−
Ethiopia was mentioned for the first time around 1200BC in the Greek epic poem the Iliad, although the term referred to the entire region south of Egypt. Starting in the 4th century AD, “Ethiopia” was used more specifically to refer to the kingdom of Aksum and its successor states, situated in the present-day countries of Eritrea and northern Ethiopia. The 15th century Book of Aksum, a collection of historical documents, explained this connotation to Ityopp’is, son of the biblical Cush and legendary founder of the city of Aksum.
  
  ⚫
* In ''[[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition]]'', Ethiopians are featured as the ally player representing the [[Ethiopians (scenario)|Ethiopians]] against the Adal Sultanate ([[Somalians]]) in the [[Christopher da Gama's Expedition]] scenario of the [[Historical Battles (Age of Empires III)|Historical Battles]]. They are also playable in ''[[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition - The African Royals|The African Royals]]''.
−  
−
The [[wikipedia:Kingdom of Aksum|kingdom of Aksum]] (AD 100 – 940) was a major naval and trading power. Located at the mouth of the Red Sea, the empire profited from its central position in the maritime network between the Roman Empire, India and Arabia. The port of Adulis was an international trade hub for silk, spices, glass, gold and ivory. Although elephants have become an endangered species in the region, herds were abundant during the Middle Ages and, consequently, ivory was a major export product. Aksum’s commercial dealings were at the same time a primary motivation and source for military campaigns: from the 3rd century onwards, the kingdom regularly sent expeditions to the Arabian Peninsula and in the 4th century, King [[wikipedia:Ezana of Axum|Ezana]] conquered the neighboring kingdom of Kush. Surpassed only by Rome, Persia and China, Ethiopia was one of the greatest world powers of that time.
  
−  
−
At first, the Aksumites practiced a polytheistic religion. Most remarkably, they erected grand burial monuments, such as large stelae (up to 33 metres high) and tombs. Under the rule of King Ezana, Aksum adopted Christianity, which would remain the state religion throughout the Middle Ages. Nevertheless, both Jews and Muslims enjoyed toleration throughout the region. In AD 615, Ethiopia even gave shelter to some of the early followers of the prophet Muhammad, and would maintain generally good relations with Islamic powers until the 16th century.
  
−  
−
The decline of the Aksumite empire was a slow process that began in the 8th century and was caused by several factors. First, the rise of Islamic states in the Arabian Peninsula and Northern Africa marked the end of Aksum’s dominance over trade in the Red Sea. Second, climate change and deforestation reduced agricultural output. Finally, a civil war around AD 940 weakened the kingdom, allowing Queen Yodit to kill the last Aksumite king. Historians still debate over whether this queen is to be seen as the founder of the [[wikipedia:Zagwe dynasty|Zagwe dynasty]] (AD 940- 1270) or whether this kingdom was established only after [[wikipedia:Mara Takla Haymanot|Mara Takla Haymanot]] overthrew [[wikipedia:Kingdom of Semien#Gideons dynasty|her descendants]] in AD 1137. Likewise, the following history of the Zagwe remains shrouded in mystery.
  
−  
−
Sources on the subject of the successor state of the Zagwe Dynasty are more common. In AD 1270, a local nobleman, Yekuno Amlak, questioned the legitimacy of the ruling king and usurped the throne, thus founding the long-lasting Solomonic dynasty. Through military expeditions and administrative reformation, Emperor Amda Seyon (AD 1314-1344) managed to consolidate the dynasty’s power and greatly expand Ethiopian territory. As with the Aksumite kingdom, the Ethiopian army consisted mainly of archers and infantry with spears and swords. Perhaps the most characteristic weapon was the Shotel, a curved sword used to dismount cavalry or to reach around shields.
  
−  
−
At the end of the Middle Ages, the Solomonic dynasty, surrounded by Islamic states, sought to make contact with European kingdoms. After the failure of the Crusades, Europe was looking for Christian allies. Pursuing the legend of Prester John, a wealthy Christian king rumored to reign in the east, a Portugese expedition reached Ethiopia in AD 1490. This proved to be an important meeting, as the Adal Sultanate invaded and conquered most of Ethiopia four decades later. In response, Emperor Dawit II requested the help of the Portuguese, who sent 400 musketeers. Together, they were able to repel the invaders, and until the late 20th century the Solomonic dynasty would remain in control.<ref name="ref" />
  
   
 
== Gallery ==
  
== Gallery ==
−
<gallery widths="185">
 +
<gallery>
 
Wonderethiopians.png|The Wonder of the Ethiopians, the rock church of "Bete Amanuel" in Lalibela, Ethiopia
  
Wonderethiopians.png|The Wonder of the Ethiopians, the rock church of "Bete Amanuel" in Lalibela, Ethiopia
−
Architectureaf.png|The African architecture set the Ethiopians share with the [[Malians]]
 +
ArchitectureafDE.png|The African [[Architecture set (Age of Empires II)|architecture set]] the Ethiopians share with the [[Malians (Age of Empires II)|Malians]]
  +
Architectureaf.png|The set before the ''Definitive Edition''
⚫
Uiethiopians.png|The Ethiopian [[user interface]]
  
  ⚫
Ethiopians.png|Ethiopians [[user interface]] image
  ⚫
Uiethiopians.png|The Ethiopian user interface before the ''Definitive Edition''
 
Ethiopiantown.png|An Ethiopian city, seen in [[Broken Stelae]]
  
Ethiopiantown.png|An Ethiopian city, seen in [[Broken Stelae]]
−
Uhh.png|[[wikipedia:Church of Saint George, Lalibela|Church of Saint George]], the original Ethiopian Wonder and a Palace in the final game
 +
Ethiopian Wonder original AoE2HD.png|[[wikipedia:Church of Saint George, Lalibela|Church of Saint George]], the original Ethiopian Wonder and a Palace in the final game
−
Ethiopians preview.png|Official preview
 +
Ethiopians preview.png|Official preview in the ''HD Edition''
⚫
Ethiopians.png|Ethiopians user interface image
  
−
</gallery>
  
−  
−
== Video overview ==
  
−
<gallery hideaddbutton=true>
  
 
Ethiopians Overview AoE2
  
Ethiopians Overview AoE2
  +
Competitive Civ Overview -3- Ethiopians
 
</gallery>
  
</gallery>
   
 
== References ==
  
== References ==
 
{{reflist}}
  
{{reflist}}
  +
−
{{-}}
  
 
{{Civilizations (Age of Empires II)}}
  
{{Civilizations (Age of Empires II)}}
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[[Category:Age of Empires II]]
  
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[[Category:Civilizations (Age of Empires II)]]
  
−
[[Category:Offensive civilizations]]
  
 
[[Category:African civilizations]]
  
[[Category:African civilizations]]
 
[[Category:The African Kingdoms]]
  
[[Category:The African Kingdoms]]

Latest revision as of 18:32, 23 March 2024

Info icon
 This article is about the civilization in Age of Empires II HD: The African Kingdoms. For other uses, see Ethiopians.
Civilization Technology tree Strategy

“Relive the glory of the once mighty Aksumite Empire and rule the Red Sea. Launch military expeditions into the Arabian peninsula and far beyond to hold a firm grip on your trading partners. Lead forces of skilled archers, devastating siege engines, and hard-hitting Shotel Warriors to bloody victories. Will your dynasty stand strong against internal conflicts or will your successor already be preparing your funeral?”
—Description[1]

The Ethiopians are an African civilization introduced Age of Empires II HD: The African Kingdoms based on the Aksumite and Zagwe kingdoms in the Horn of Africa. They focus on archers, more accurately foot archers.

The Ethiopians as a civilization also appear as a playable civilization in the Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition - The African Royals expansion.

Characteristics[]

Unique unit[]

Shotelwarrioricon-DE Shotel Warrior: Rapidly deployed infantry with high attack but low armor and hit points.

Unique technologies[]

Civilization bonuses[]

  • The Archer line fires 18% faster.
  • Receive +100 food, +100 gold whenever a new Age is reached.
  • The Pikeman upgrade is free.

Team bonus[]

Outposts +3 Line of Sight and stone cost removed.

Overview[]

The Ethiopians specialize in foot archers, which are one of their greatest assets, since their Archers get all upgrades and fire faster. Their siege weapons are another big selling point in the late game. They are the only civilization to get all the units available in the Siege Workshop (excluding the regional Armored Elephant unit), and have a unique technology that makes the siege engines far more dangerous by increasing their Area of Effect. Their team bonus allows them to create more Outposts with more Line of Sight, granting them more vision of the map. Their infantry are good, lacking the Champion, but getting the Shotel Warrior instead. In addition, the Ethiopians get the Pikeman upgrade for free. Their navy is average as well, lacking the Fast Fire Ship, Heavy Demolition Ship, and Elite Cannon Galleon, but possessing fully upgraded Galleons. Their Monks get almost all of the technologies, but they do not get the important Block Printing or Redemption technologies. Their defenses are somewhat average, and their economy is solid, with a free +100 food, +100 gold after every age advance, only lacking Crop Rotation.

Their cavalry are weak, lacking Bloodlines and Plate Barding Armor. Even with Royal Heirs, their Camel Riders end up performing barely any better against cavalry while performing worse against foot units. Additionally, the Ethiopians do not have a long term economic bonus, so they can fall behind after their initial power spike.

Overall, the Ethiopians can be best described as a "glass cannon" civilization. While the Ethiopians lack key important upgrades for their melee units, they make up for it with their strong firepower with their foot archers and siege weapons.

Changelog[]

AoE2-DLCicon-3 The African Kingdoms[]

AoE2-DLCicon-4 Rise of the Rajas[]

  • With patch 5.7, the Halberdier upgrade is no longer free.

AoEIIDE icon Definitive Edition[]

Dawn of the Dukes icon Dawn of the Dukes[]

  • With update 56005, non-Elite Shotel Warriors have more hit points (40 → 45), and the Elite Shotel Warrior upgrade costs less (1,200 food, 550 gold → 900 food, 450 gold).

AoE2Icon-DynastiesIndia Dynasties of India[]

  • No longer receive bonus resources at the game start in games with Feudal or later starting age.
  • With update 81058, their team bonus removes the stone cost of Outposts (on top of their +3 Line of Sight), but no longer gives Towers +3 Line of Sight.

Campaign appearances[]

The Ethiopians have a campaign devoted to their civilization: Yodit. They also appear in:

CampaignIcon-SundjataDE Sundjata[]

CampaignIcon-FranciscoDE Francisco de Almeida[]

CampaignIcon-YoditDE Yodit[]

This campaign is played as the Ethiopians.

  • Path of Exile
    • Gidajan - Enemy
    • Fort in the Mountains - Enemy
    • Camp in the Forest - Enemy
    • Aksum - Ally
  • The Right Partner
    • Hostile Beja Tribes - Enemy
    • Raiders - Enemy
    • Nobatia - Ally → Potential Enemy
    • Beja Tribes - Ally
  • A Fallen Crown
    • Dagnajan - Enemy
    • Aksumite Empire - Enemy
    • Begemder - Enemy
    • Orthodox Monks - Enemy
    • Alodian Traders - Neutral → Potential Ally
    • Darginda - Ally
  • Broken Stelae
    • Gidajan - Enemy
    • Aksumite Empire - Enemy
    • Ethiopian Rebels - Ally
    • Local Tribes - Ally
  • Welcome Home
    • Gidajan - Enemy
    • Aksum (Gidajan) - Enemy
    • Aksum (Yodit) - Ally
    • Locals - Ally
    • Aksum - Ally

VictorsAndVanquished Campaign Icon Victors and Vanquished[]

In-game dialogue language[]

This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it.

Ethiopian units speak Amharic, a South Semitic language (related to the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Arabic languages) written with the Geʽez script descended from Egyptian hieroglyphs and ancient South Arabian script.

Villager
Military
Monk
King

AI player names[]

When playing a random map game against the computer, the player may encounter any of the following Ethiopian AI characters:

  • Abba Guba (አባ ጉባ): One of the Nine Saints of Ethiopia, who were important in the growth of Christianity in Ethiopia.
  • Abuna Frumentius (ፍሬምናጦስ): See Frumentius.
  • Amda Seyon (ዐምደ ጽዮን): An Ethiopian emperor from the Solomonic dynasty; reigns 1314–1344.
  • Amir Habbuba (አሚር ሓብቡባ): Amir (king) ruled the ancient walled city of Harar (969–1000).
  • Dil Na'od (ዲል ናኦድ): The last king of Aksum before the Zagwe dynasty; lived 9th–10th century.
  • Frumentius (ፍሬምናጦስ): The first Bishop of Aksum who were credited for bringing Christianity to the kingdom; died 383.
  • Gelawdewos (ገላውዴዎስ): Personal name of Asnaf Sagad I, an Ethiopian emperor from the Solomonic dynasty; lived 1521/1522–1559.
  • Kaleb of Axum (እለ አጽብሐ): The most well-documented, if not the best known, king of Aksum; reigned ca. 520.
  • Lalibela (ላሊበላ): Personal name of Gebre Mesqel, the most well-known of Zagwe kings known for completing the monolithic rock-cut churches on the namesake city; lived 1162–1221.
  • Yakuno Amlak (ይኵኖ አምላክ): Personal name of Tasfa Iyasus, a descendant of Dil Nao'd and the restorer of the Solomonic dynasty; reigned 1270–1285.
  • Yared (ያሬድ): A legendary Ethiopian musician credited for inventing the sacred music of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Ethiopian musical notation; lived 505–571.
  • Yodit (ጉዲት): Yodit was a semi-legendary non-Christian queen (flourished c. 960) who laid waste to Axum and its countryside, destroyed churches and monuments, and attempted to exterminate the members of the ruling Axumite dynasty. Her deeds are recorded in the oral tradition and mentioned incidentally in various historical accounts.
  • Zara Yaqob (ዘርአ:ያዕቆብ): Personal name of Kwestantinos I, emperor of Ethiopia from the Solomonic dynasty and one of the greatest rulers in Ethiopia's history; lived 1399–1468.

History[]

“Ethiopia was mentioned for the first time around 1200BC in the Greek epic poem the Iliad, although the term referred to the entire region south of Egypt. Starting in the 4th century AD, "Ethiopia" was used more specifically to refer to the kingdom of Aksum and its successor states, situated in the present-day countries of Eritrea and northern Ethiopia. The 15th century Book of Aksum, a collection of historical documents, explained this connotation to Ityopp'is, son of the biblical Cush and legendary founder of the city of Aksum.
History ethiopians

The kingdom of Aksum (AD 100 – 940) was a major naval and trading power. Located at the mouth of the Red Sea, the empire profited from its central position in the maritime network between the Roman Empire, India and Arabia. The port of Adulis was an international trade hub for silk, spices, glass, gold and ivory. Although elephants have become an endangered species in the region, herds were abundant during the Middle Ages and, consequently, ivory was a major export product. Aksum's commercial dealings were at the same time a primary motivation and source for military campaigns: from the 3rd century onwards, the kingdom regularly sent expeditions to the Arabian Peninsula and in the 4th century, King Ezana conquered the neighboring kingdom of Kush. Surpassed only by Rome, Persia and China, Ethiopia was one of the greatest world powers of that time.

At first, the Aksumites practiced a polytheistic religion. Most remarkably, they erected grand burial monuments, such as large stelae (up to 33 metres high) and tombs. Under the rule of King Ezana, Aksum adopted Christianity, which would remain the state religion throughout the Middle Ages. Nevertheless, both Jews and Muslims enjoyed toleration throughout the region. In AD 615, Ethiopia even gave shelter to some of the early followers of the prophet Muhammad, and would maintain generally good relations with Islamic powers until the 16th century.

The decline of the Aksumite empire was a slow process that began in the 8th century and was caused by several factors. First, the rise of Islamic states in the Arabian Peninsula and Northern Africa marked the end of Aksum's dominance over trade in the Red Sea. Second, climate change and deforestation reduced agricultural output. Finally, a civil war around AD 940 weakened the kingdom, allowing Queen Yodit to kill the last Aksumite king. Historians still debate over whether this queen is to be seen as the founder of the Zagwe dynasty (AD 940- 1270) or whether this kingdom was established only after Mara Takla Haymanot overthrew her descendants in AD 1137. Likewise, the following history of the Zagwe remains shrouded in mystery.

Sources on the subject of the successor state of the Zagwe Dynasty are more common. In AD 1270, a local nobleman, Yekuno Amlak, questioned the legitimacy of the ruling king and usurped the throne, thus founding the long-lasting Solomonic dynasty. Through military expeditions and administrative reformation, Emperor Amda Seyon (AD 1314-1344) managed to consolidate the dynasty's power and greatly expand Ethiopian territory. As with the Aksumite kingdom, the Ethiopian army consisted mainly of archers and infantry with spears and swords. Perhaps the most characteristic weapon was the Shotel, a curved sword used to dismount cavalry or to reach around shields.

At the end of the Middle Ages, the Solomonic dynasty, surrounded by Islamic states, sought to make contact with European kingdoms. After the failure of the Crusades, Europe was looking for Christian allies. Pursuing the legend of Prester John, a wealthy Christian king rumored to reign in the east, a Portugese[sic] expedition reached Ethiopia in AD 1490. This proved to be an important meeting, as the Adal Sultanate invaded and conquered most of Ethiopia four decades later. In response, Emperor Dawit II requested the help of the Portuguese, who sent 400 musketeers. Together, they were able to repel the invaders, and until the late 20th century the Solomonic dynasty would remain in control.		”
—[1]

Trivia[]

Gallery[]

References[]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 https://www.forgottenempires.net/age-of-empires-ii-definitive-edition/civilizations/ethiopians
  2. ↑ http://worldcoincatalog.com/AC/C/Aksum/333-356CE-Ezana/333-356CE-Ezana.htm
  3. ↑ https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/C_1989-0518-41
  4. ↑ http://aok.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/aokcgi/display.cgi?action=st&fn=3&tn=38338&f=,,,&st=125
Civilizations in Age of Empires II
Categorised by architecture sets
AfricanCivIcon-Ethiopians Ethiopians · CivIcon-Malians Malians
Central AsianCivIcon-Cumans Cumans · CivIcon-Tatars Tatars
Central EuropeanCivIcon-Goths Goths · CivIcon-Huns Huns · CivIcon-Teutons Teutons · CivIcon-Vikings Vikings
East AsianCivIcon-Chinese Chinese · CivIcon-Japanese Japanese · CivIcon-Koreans Koreans · CivIcon-Mongols Mongols · CivIcon-Vietnamese Vietnamese
Eastern EuropeanCivIcon-Bohemians Bohemians · CivIcon-Bulgarians Bulgarians · CivIcon-Lithuanians Lithuanians · CivIcon-Magyars Magyars · CivIcon-Poles Poles · CivIcon-Slavs Slavs
MediterraneanCivIcon-Armenians Armenians · CivIcon-Byzantines Byzantines · CivIcon-Georgians Georgians · CivIcon-Italians Italians · CivIcon-Portuguese Portuguese · CivIcon-Romans Romans · CivIcon-Sicilians Sicilians · CivIcon-Spanish Spanish
Middle EasternCivIcon-Berbers Berbers · CivIcon-Persians Persians · CivIcon-Saracens Saracens · CivIcon-Turks Turks
Native AmericanCivIcon-Aztecs Aztecs · CivIcon-Incas Incas · CivIcon-Mayans Mayans
South Asian/IndianCivIcon-Bengalis Bengalis · CivIcon-Dravidians Dravidians · CivIcon-Gurjaras Gurjaras · CivIcon-Hindustanis Hindustanis · CivIcon-Indians Indians (removed)
Southeast AsianCivIcon-Burmese Burmese · CivIcon-Khmer Khmer · CivIcon-Malay Malay
Western EuropeanCivIcon-Britons Britons · CivIcon-Burgundians Burgundians · CivIcon-Celts Celts · CivIcon-Franks Franks
Categorised by expansions
AoE2-DLCicon-0 The Age of KingsCivIcon-Britons Britons · CivIcon-Byzantines Byzantines · CivIcon-Celts Celts · CivIcon-Chinese Chinese · CivIcon-Franks Franks · CivIcon-Goths Goths · CivIcon-Japanese Japanese · CivIcon-Mongols Mongols · CivIcon-Persians Persians · CivIcon-Saracens Saracens · CivIcon-Teutons Teutons · CivIcon-Turks Turks · CivIcon-Vikings Vikings
AoE2-DLCicon-1 The ConquerorsCivIcon-Aztecs Aztecs · CivIcon-Huns Huns · CivIcon-Koreans Koreans · CivIcon-Mayans Mayans · CivIcon-Spanish Spanish
AoE2-DLCicon-2 The ForgottenCivIcon-Incas Incas · CivIcon-Indians Indians (removed) · CivIcon-Italians Italians · CivIcon-Magyars Magyars · CivIcon-Slavs Slavs
AoE2-DLCicon-3 The African KingdomsCivIcon-Berbers Berbers · CivIcon-Ethiopians Ethiopians · CivIcon-Malians Malians · CivIcon-Portuguese Portuguese
AoE2-DLCicon-4 Rise of the RajasCivIcon-Burmese Burmese · CivIcon-Khmer Khmer · CivIcon-Malay Malay · CivIcon-Vietnamese Vietnamese
AoE2-DLCicon-5 The Last KhansCivIcon-Bulgarians Bulgarians · CivIcon-Cumans Cumans · CivIcon-Lithuanians Lithuanians · CivIcon-Tatars Tatars
AoE2Icon-LordsWest Lords of the WestCivIcon-Burgundians Burgundians · CivIcon-Sicilians Sicilians
Dawn of the Dukes icon Dawn of the DukesCivIcon-Bohemians Bohemians · CivIcon-Poles Poles
AoE2Icon-DynastiesIndia Dynasties of IndiaCivIcon-Bengalis Bengalis · CivIcon-Dravidians Dravidians · CivIcon-Gurjaras Gurjaras · CivIcon-Hindustanis Hindustanis
AoE2Icon-ReturnRome Return of RomeCivIcon-Romans Romans
AoE2Icon-MountainRoyals The Mountain RoyalsCivIcon-Armenians Armenians · CivIcon-Georgians Georgians
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