Haile Selassie was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 until 1974. He is well-known for his efforts in modernizing Ethiopia and for his role in the establishment of the Organization of African Unity, promoting unity among African nations. His reign was marked by significant social reforms, including the abolition of feudalism. Selassie was also a symbol of Ethiopian sovereignty during the Italian invasion and subsequent occupation, becoming a figure of resistance. His influence extended beyond political boundaries; he became a prominent figure within the Rastafari movement in the 20th century. Followers of Rastafari view him as a divine figure, symbolizing black pride and liberation from oppression. His legacy has been instrumental in the cultural and spiritual awakening of people of African descent worldwide. Despite his achievements, Selassie's later years were troubled by political unrest, leading to his overthrow in a coup in 1974. After his deposition, he was imprisoned and died under uncertain circumstances. His contributions to Ethiopia and Africa, and his significance in global culture, continue to be recognized and celebrated. Haile Selassie, also known as Ras Bitwaddad Tesemma, was born on July 23, 1892, in Ejersa Gora, Ethiopia. He was educated in the traditional Ethiopian orthodox Christian way, learning Amharic and Ge'ez. His ascent to the throne came after the death of Empress Menen Asfaw in 1962. He actively engaged with international politics, representing Ethiopia at the League of Nations and advocating for independence for colonized African nations. Baptized as Lij Tafari Makonnen, Selassie's leadership was characterized by his commitment to modernization and social progress. He sought to establish Ethiopia as a beacon of African pride and independence, supporting education and infrastructure development while advocating for pan-African unity. His reign saw Ethiopia transition into a more modern state, but it also faced challenges like internal dissent and opposition. Haile Selassie's legacy endures beyond his lifetime, deeply influencing both Ethiopia and the African continent. His vision for unity and progress remains relevant, inspiring future generations to strive for justice and equality. The Rastafari movement, which emerged during his reign, continues to celebrate his legacy as a spiritual leader, reinforcing his status as a symbol of empowerment for African diasporas worldwide.