ZA-SELLASE

Za-Sellasé (15?-June 26, 1607) was one of the main instigators of many rebellions during the reign of Emperors Yaegob (reigned 1597-1603), and Za-Dengel (1603-04).

Born of a humble Guragé family, Za-Sellasé began a successful military career under Abbo Asgar, governor of Damot. He later joined an infantry regiment, where he attracted the attention of Emperor Sartsa Dengel [reigned 1563-97]. When Sartsa Dengel died in 1597, Za-Sellasé remained with his successor, Sartsa Dengel’s son Yaegob, who made him Blattenoch geta (“Chief of pages”).

Za-Sellasé encouraged Yaegob to end his minority, thereby earning the enmity of Empress Maryam-Sena and other regents. He was banished, but was recalled in 1603, when Yaeqob made him commander of an army division. Popular with the professional soldiers, Za-Sellasé soon made an alliance with the power-thirsty former regent, Ras Atnatewos, who resented Yaegob’s independent rule. Though their insurrection failed, Yaegob was deposed, and Za-Dengel was installed as emperor. Za-Sellasé again returned from the exile to which he had been sent, and was given a cousin of the new emperor as wife, and was made governor of Dambiya. Dissatisfied with this post, he organised a successful revolt against Za-Dengel, who was killed in a battle on October 13, 1604. Thereafter, Za-Sellasé overcame the opposition of his colleagues, including Atnatewos, had Yaegob reinstated, and was made first minister of the realm.

In 1607 Za-Sellasé’s army was defeated by the rival claimant to the throne, Susneyos, who reigned as emperor from 1607-32. Yaegob’s displeasure at this reverse caused Za-Sellasé to side with Susneyos. In March their joint forces attacked Yaeqob, causing his defeat and death. But Susneyos was distrustful of Za-Sellasé’s swift change of front, and he had him imprisoned at Amba Guzman in Gojam. In June, Za-Sellasé escaped, but was shortly afterwards killed by Za-Dengel’s relatives.

MERID WOLDE ARAGAY