Menelik II was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1889 until his death in 1913. He is best known for successfully leading Ethiopian forces against the Italian invasion at the Battle of Adwa in 1896, which secured Ethiopia's sovereignty and made it one of the few African nations to resist colonization during the Scramble for Africa. Under Menelik II's leadership, Ethiopia modernized its military and infrastructure, including the introduction of telegraphs and railways. His reign marked a significant period of national unity and development, contributing to Ethiopia's status as a symbol of African independence against colonial powers.