The Rise of Derg in Ethiopia: A Historical Overview

Historical Context of Derg's Rise in Ethiopia

The rise of the Derg, a military junta that ruled Ethiopia from 1974 until 1991, cannot be understood without considering the complex historical context of the Ethiopian Empire and its political landscape. This period was marked by significant socio-economic changes, political upheavals, and the influence of key figures such as Emperor Haile Selassie. The background of these elements set the stage for the emergence of the Derg and its subsequent policies that would reshape Ethiopian society.

The Ethiopian Empire and its Political Landscape

The Ethiopian Empire, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, has been a significant political entity in East Africa for centuries. By the early 20th century, Ethiopia was one of the few African nations to maintain its sovereignty during the European colonization of the continent. This independence was solidified with the victory over Italian forces at the Battle of Adwa in 1896, which became a symbol of anti-colonial resistance.

However, the political landscape of Ethiopia during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie was characterized by authoritarianism and centralization. Despite his efforts to modernize the country and promote education and infrastructure development, Selassie faced growing discontent among various social groups, including peasants, urban workers, and the military. The feudal system, which dominated Ethiopia’s agrarian economy, left many rural communities impoverished and disenfranchised. The lack of land reforms exacerbated social inequalities, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

As the Cold War intensified, Ethiopia became a focal point of geopolitical interests. The United States and the Soviet Union sought to extend their influence in Africa, resulting in fluctuating foreign relations for Ethiopia. Selassie's alignment with the West during the 1960s, particularly in military and economic assistance, was met with criticism domestically, as many perceived it as a betrayal of Ethiopia's sovereignty and interests.

The Role of Emperor Haile Selassie

Emperor Haile Selassie, who ruled from 1930 to 1974, was a pivotal figure in Ethiopian history. His reign was marked by attempts at modernization and development but also by an increasingly authoritarian rule. Selassie's vision of a modern Ethiopia included the establishment of a centralized government, promotion of education, and improvements in infrastructure. He was instrumental in Ethiopia's entry into the League of Nations and the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, positioning himself as a leader in the Pan-African movement.

Despite these efforts, Selassie's government was increasingly viewed as disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary Ethiopians. The persistent poverty, famine, and lack of political freedom fueled discontent among various segments of society. The military, which had been modernized with foreign assistance, began to harbor its grievances against the imperial regime. The 1960 coup attempt by a faction of the military was a stark warning sign of the growing unrest within the armed forces.

Additionally, Selassie's failure to address land reform and social inequalities contributed to the mounting tensions. His reliance on a small group of elites and nobility to maintain power alienated large segments of the populace, particularly the peasantry. The dissatisfaction culminated in strikes and protests demanding reforms, which were met with brutal repression by the imperial government. Ultimately, Selassie's inability to adapt to the changing political landscape would lead to his downfall.

Social and Economic Conditions Preceding Derg

In the years leading up to the rise of the Derg, Ethiopia's social and economic conditions were dire. The feudal system heavily favored landlords and left the majority of the population, particularly peasants, in poverty. The agricultural sector, which accounted for a significant portion of the economy, was characterized by outdated practices and limited access to resources. This resulted in low productivity and frequent food shortages, exacerbated by droughts and famine.

Urban areas were not immune to these challenges. Rapid population growth in cities like Addis Ababa led to overcrowding, unemployment, and inadequate housing. The industrial sector remained underdeveloped, with limited opportunities for economic advancement. The discontent among urban workers, coupled with the frustrations of rural populations, created a volatile environment ripe for revolutionary sentiments.

The socio-economic landscape was further complicated by the political repression that characterized Selassie's regime. Freedom of speech and political association were severely restricted, leading to the emergence of various opposition groups. Among them were leftist movements that gained traction among intellectuals, urban workers, and students. These groups began to articulate the grievances of the populace, advocating for radical changes to the existing political and economic systems.

The culmination of these social and economic conditions set the stage for the military coup that would ultimately lead to the establishment of the Derg. The disillusionment with the imperial regime, coupled with a desire for change among the military and civilian population, created a perfect storm for the rise of a new revolutionary force.

Formation and Ideology of Derg

The rise of the Derg (an abbreviation for "Dergue," which translates to "Committee" in Amharic) was a pivotal chapter in Ethiopian history, transforming the nation’s political landscape from a centuries-old imperial monarchy to a military-led socialist state. The Derg's formation in the mid-1970s marked the culmination of various socio-political dynamics, leading to a radical shift in governance and ideology in Ethiopia. This section will explore the military coup of 1974 that gave rise to the Derg, the Marxist-Leninist ideology that influenced its policies, and the key figures who shaped its leadership.

The Military Coup of 1974

The military coup that took place in Ethiopia on September 12, 1974, was the result of a confluence of factors, including deep-seated discontent among the populace, economic instability, and a weakening imperial authority. Emperor Haile Selassie, the last sovereign of the Ethiopian Empire, had ruled for over four decades, but by the early 1970s, his regime faced significant challenges. Increasing inflation, famine, and a rural-urban divide exacerbated social tensions, leading to widespread protests and strikes.

On the fateful day of the coup, the Ethiopian military, which had been increasingly politicized, took decisive action. The Derg, originally a council of military officers, emerged as the key player in this upheaval. The coup was relatively swift and was marked by the detention of Emperor Haile Selassie and the dismantling of the imperial government. This marked the end of centuries of monarchical rule and the beginning of a new era.

Initially, the Derg presented itself as a transitional government, promising reforms and a return to stability. However, it quickly began consolidating power, establishing a one-party state and asserting military authority over civilian life. The Derg's leadership, characterized by a mix of military and civilian elements, began to implement radical changes aimed at addressing the economic and social issues that had plagued Ethiopia for years.

Marxist-Leninist Ideology and its Influence

The ideological underpinning of the Derg was heavily influenced by Marxist-Leninist thought. Following the coup, the Derg sought to align itself with revolutionary movements around the world, particularly in the context of the Cold War. The adoption of Marxism-Leninism was not merely a theoretical choice but a pragmatic strategy to garner support from the Soviet Union and other socialist states. This ideological shift was formalized in 1977 when the Derg officially declared itself a socialist state.

Under Marxist-Leninist ideology, the Derg promoted the idea of a class struggle, emphasizing the need to eradicate feudal structures and capitalist influences. The regime sought to mobilize the peasantry and urban workers against the old order, advocating for land reform and nationalization of key industries. This ideological framework justified the Derg's radical policies, including the expropriation of land from landlords and the establishment of collective farms.

The Derg's commitment to Marxist-Leninism also influenced its approach to governance and society. The regime sought to reshape Ethiopian society through political indoctrination, focusing on education and propaganda to promote revolutionary ideals. The Derg's leadership believed that through Marxist-Leninist principles, they could transform Ethiopia into a modern socialist state, free from the vestiges of imperial and feudal rule.

Key Figures in the Derg Leadership

The Derg's leadership comprised several significant figures who played crucial roles in shaping its policies and direction. Among them, Mengistu Haile Mariam emerged as the most prominent leader. Initially a member of the military council, Mengistu quickly rose to power and became the face of the Derg. His leadership style was characterized by authoritarianism and a penchant for violence, which became evident during the infamous Red Terror campaign.

Mengistu's rise was supported by other key members of the Derg, including Colonel Tesfaye Dinka and Major General Aman Andom. These leaders brought diverse military backgrounds and experiences to the Derg, contributing to its consolidation of power. However, internal divisions within the Derg also emerged, leading to purges and the elimination of rivals. The most notable of these was the elimination of Aman Andom in 1977, a move that solidified Mengistu's control over the Derg.

Other notable figures included Colonel Mengistu's close ally, Teferi Bante, who played a significant role in the implementation of the Derg's agrarian policies. The Derg's leadership was marked by a militaristic approach, and many of its key figures were deeply influenced by their military training, which emphasized loyalty, discipline, and hierarchy. This militarization of governance often resulted in harsh repression of dissent, leading to a climate of fear and control.

The Derg's Initial Policies

In the wake of the coup, the Derg implemented a series of ambitious policies aimed at transforming Ethiopia's socio-economic landscape. Recognizing the feudal remnants of the past, the regime sought to dismantle the traditional landholding system through agrarian reform. The Land Reform Proclamation of 1975 abolished landlordism, redistributing land to peasants and promoting collective farming. These changes aimed to empower the rural population and increase agricultural productivity.

Economic policies were also influenced by the Derg's socialist ideology. The nationalization of key industries, including banking and manufacturing, was seen as essential for achieving economic independence and reducing foreign influence. The Derg sought to create a self-sufficient economy, emphasizing state control over the means of production. However, these policies often faced significant challenges, leading to inefficiencies and shortages.

Additionally, the Derg focused on education and health care as critical components of its development strategy. Literacy campaigns were launched, aiming to educate the population and promote revolutionary ideals. The regime sought to create a new socialist citizenry, aligned with the principles of Marxism-Leninism. However, the reality of implementation often fell short of the ambitious goals set by the government, leading to disillusionment among the populace.

Repression and Control

As the Derg consolidated power, it increasingly resorted to repression to maintain control over the population. The regime viewed opposition as a threat to its revolutionary goals and responded with violence and intimidation. The Red Terror campaign, initiated in 1977, was a brutal crackdown on perceived enemies of the state. Thousands of individuals suspected of being counter-revolutionaries or dissenters were arrested, tortured, and executed. This campaign not only targeted political opponents but also extended to intellectuals, students, and anyone deemed a threat to the Derg's authority.

The Derg's reliance on terror as a governing strategy created an atmosphere of fear throughout the country. This repression was justified by the regime as necessary for the survival of the revolution, framing dissent as a betrayal of the socialist cause. The impact of the Red Terror on Ethiopian society was profound, leaving deep scars and contributing to a culture of silence and submission.

Conclusion of this Section

The formation and ideology of the Derg were crucial in shaping Ethiopia's trajectory during the late 20th century. The military coup of 1974 represented a turning point, leading to the establishment of a regime that embraced Marxist-Leninist principles in an effort to reshape Ethiopian society. Key figures within the Derg, particularly Mengistu Haile Mariam, played significant roles in implementing radical policies aimed at agrarian reform and economic transformation, albeit through oppressive means. The Derg's legacy is a complex tapestry of revolutionary ideals intertwined with the harsh realities of authoritarian rule, leaving an indelible mark on Ethiopia's history.

Derg's Impact on Ethiopia: Policies and Consequences

The Derg, officially known as the Provisional Military Administrative Council, rose to power in Ethiopia in 1974, marking a significant turning point in the nation’s turbulent history. The regime was characterized by its radical socialist policies and a commitment to transforming Ethiopia into a Marxist-Leninist state. The consequences of these policies were profound and far-reaching, affecting every aspect of Ethiopian society, from agriculture to political freedoms. This section will explore the various policies implemented by the Derg and their subsequent impact on the Ethiopian population and economy.

Agrarian Reform and Land Nationalization

One of the Derg's most significant policies was the Agrarian Reform Proclamation, issued in March 1975. This reform aimed to dismantle feudal landownership systems that had long been entrenched in Ethiopian society. The Derg viewed land reform as a critical step toward addressing the deep social inequalities that had plagued the country for centuries. The proclamation abolished private land ownership, reallocating all land to the state, and intended to redistribute it to the peasantry.

The government’s justification for this radical shift was rooted in Marxist ideology, positing that the feudal land structure was a primary cause of poverty and social injustice. Land was to be distributed according to a system that favored landless peasants, promoting collective farming and cooperatives. However, the implementation of these reforms was chaotic and often violent. Many landowners were dispossessed without compensation, leading to widespread resentment and resistance.

The agrarian reform had several immediate consequences. Initially, there was a surge in enthusiasm among the rural population, as many peasants received land for the first time. However, this enthusiasm was short-lived. The Derg's approach to land distribution often resulted in confusion and inequities. In many instances, the land was not distributed equitably, and local party officials, frequently corrupt, gained control over the distribution process. This led to disillusionment among the peasantry, who found themselves caught in a cycle of poverty and dependence on the state.

Moreover, the emphasis on collectivization stifled individual initiative. Cooperative farms were often poorly managed, suffering from inefficiencies and a lack of motivation among workers. The state’s focus on quantity rather than quality in agricultural production resulted in declining food outputs. By the early 1980s, Ethiopia faced significant food shortages, exacerbated by drought and mismanagement. The state’s inability to respond effectively to these crises led to widespread famine, notably the catastrophic famine of 1983-1985, which claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of Ethiopians.

The Red Terror Campaign

In tandem with its agricultural policies, the Derg instituted a brutal campaign of political repression known as the Red Terror, initiated in 1977. This campaign aimed to eliminate perceived enemies of the state, particularly those associated with the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Party (EPRP) and other opposition groups. The Derg justified these draconian measures as necessary for the survival of the revolution and the establishment of a socialist state.

The Red Terror was marked by widespread human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands of people were killed during this campaign, with victims often being dissidents, intellectuals, and anyone suspected of opposing the Derg’s policies. The regime employed a network of informants and security forces to root out dissent, creating an atmosphere of fear and suspicion throughout the country.

The psychological impact of the Red Terror was profound. It stifled political discourse and dissent, leading to a climate of oppression that persisted throughout the Derg's rule. Many Ethiopians were forced into silence, fearing for their safety and the safety of their families. This brutal approach not only quelled immediate opposition but also left a legacy of trauma and division that would affect Ethiopian society for generations.

Internationally, the Red Terror drew condemnation from human rights organizations and foreign governments. The Derg’s reputation was further tarnished by its close ties to the Soviet Union, which provided military and financial support. Although this backing initially bolstered the Derg’s power, the regime's human rights abuses alienated many potential allies and supporters.

Economic Policies and their Outcomes

The Derg's economic policies were heavily influenced by Marxist-Leninist ideology, emphasizing state control over the economy. The government nationalized key industries, including banking, manufacturing, and trade, in an attempt to centralize economic power and eliminate capitalist influences. These policies were driven by the belief that a planned economy would lead to greater equity and social justice.

However, the Derg's economic strategies often resulted in inefficiencies and stagnation. The nationalization of industries led to bureaucratic mismanagement, with the government struggling to maintain production levels. The lack of competition stifled innovation, and many state-owned enterprises became unprofitable. As a result, the economy suffered from chronic shortages of goods and services, further exacerbating the hardships faced by the population.

In the agricultural sector, the Derg's policies prioritized state-run cooperatives over individual farmers. While this was intended to increase productivity, it often had the opposite effect. Many farmers lacked the incentive to work hard on land they did not own, resulting in decreased agricultural output. Additionally, the government's focus on export crops, such as coffee and cotton, left the country vulnerable to fluctuations in global markets and reduced food security.

The combination of poor agricultural policies and the effects of drought culminated in the devastating famine of the mid-1980s. The Derg's inability to effectively respond to the crisis highlighted the failures of its economic policies and led to widespread suffering. International humanitarian organizations mobilized to provide aid, but the government's refusal to acknowledge the extent of the crisis hindered relief efforts. The famine not only caused massive loss of life but also incited growing discontent and opposition against the Derg regime.

By the late 1980s, Ethiopia was facing a full-blown economic crisis, marked by hyperinflation, widespread poverty, and social unrest. The Derg’s failure to address these challenges ultimately contributed to its downfall. In 1991, a coalition of opposition groups, including the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), overthrew the Derg, leading to the establishment of a new government and a shift in Ethiopia’s political landscape.

Summary of Derg's Impact on Ethiopia

The Derg’s policies and their consequences were instrumental in shaping modern Ethiopia. While the regime aimed to create a more equitable society, its methods often led to greater suffering and injustice. The legacy of the Derg continues to influence Ethiopian society, politics, and economics, as the nation grapples with the repercussions of this tumultuous period in its history.