States, Principalities, Population Movements and Interactions in Ethiopia, 13th - Mid-16th Century

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the political, social, and economic history of Ethiopia from the 13th to the mid-16th century.

Solomonic Dynasty

A ruling dynasty in Ethiopia founded by Yekuno-Amlak, claiming descent from the Aksumite kings.

Yekuno-Amlak

The founder of the Solomonic Dynasty who claimed descent from the Aksumite kings.

Mobile Courts

A system used by medieval Ethiopian monarchs to rule vast territories without a permanent capital.

Gult System

A feudal system of administration in medieval Ethiopia where state officials collected tribute from local peasants.

Bale-Gult

An official granted the right to collect tribute from the peasantry under the gult system.

Rist Right

A communal birthright to land, signifying hereditary ownership in feudal Ethiopia.

Ifat

A significant Muslim sultanate established by Umar Walasma, which became a rival to the Christian Kingdom.

Adal Sultanate

A Muslim sultanate that resisted the Christian Kingdom, founded by a branch of the Walasma family.

Imam Ahmed ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi

Leader of Adal who strengthened its power and waged war against the Christian Kingdom.

Gadaa System

An egalitarian governance system of the Oromo based on age-sets that regulated community activities.

Abba-Gadaa

The head of the Gadaa government and leader within the Gadaa system.

Moggasa

A system of adopting non-Oromo individuals into Oromo society through an oath of allegiance.

Balett

The traditional governance system of the Gedeo, similar to the Gadaa system, based on age and council approval.

Terracing Farming

A sustainable agricultural practice employed by the Konso people for effective land use.

Burji Administration

An elective system among the Burji people for appointing officials through various ceremonies.