The Barefoot Emperor: An Ethiopian Tragedy

This excellent book deals with the life and times of Tewodros the second (1818c-1868) who was Emperor of Ethiopia from 1855 until his death.Born from aristocratic parents he was cast out on thier divorce leaving him and his mother penniless. He began adult life as an outlaw but after many battles with warlords and princes he unified Ethiopia and became Emperor.Asemperor hewas desporate to modernise the country and wrote to Queen Victoria to send workers and aid.His letter was unanswered for 2 years so he abducted the British consul and all Europeans and took them to Magdala.Eventually the British sent an army. The battle that ensued saw the release of the captives while the Emperor comitted suicide-his wife and son were sent to the U.K. The wife died before arrival but the son went to Rogby school spossored by the Queen but he died aged 19 never seeing his country again.A marvellous book to be highly recommended but the illustrations are abysmal.

It is a brillian account of an Ethiopian emperor who was struggling to unite his country as one and his desperate attempt to bring the most coveted civilisation to his home contry.

I ordered this book as part of my research into my own family history as one of the main protagonists is an ancestor of mine. Not only did it prove useful in that respect but also described a fascinating event in British colonial history. Well written and easy to follow, exciting, shocking, horrifying, it's got the lot really. In case you're wondering Capt Speedy is my GG uncle.

This beautifully written account of the emperor Tewodros brings highland Ethiopia alive. Anyone reading it would, I think, be moved to visit, to see the landscape, feel the sun and smell the smells

Good review of colonial..political messes of the 19thC. Well researched I feel. Excellent study book...if student insight needed, you might do worse..

A fascinating story and the level of detail brings it all alive. By far the best I have read on this subject.

Incredible story, well written. I had no idea this ever happened. Great for history buffs, even if you've never been to Ethiopia or won't ever go.

A gripping account of a little known series of events in history. Philip Marsden's writing style really brings the whole sad story to life.