Passion or Profession: Emperor

Period: 1892–1975

Haile Selassie (a title meaning “power of the trinity”) was the primary figure in Ethiopia's transition to independence after World War II. He was influential in drafting a new constitution, abolishing slavery, and driving out the Italians. However, his preferential treatment of certain ethnic groups led to rebellion. Conditions in Ethiopia worsened, and in 1974 he was deposed.