Social stratification in Ethiopia from ancient to present: historical perspective

Abstract

The objective of the study was to reconstruct the cause, phenomenon, and consequences of social stratification in Ethiopia from prehistoric times to the present. The researcher employed document analysis to collect the data and a qualitative content analysis method to analyze this research. The results showed that social stratification had existed in Ethiopia since antiquity, which was caused by ethnicity, economy, religion, power, prestige, education, and gender differences. The social stratification in Ethiopia is created inequality, limited social mobility, marginalization, political and social unrest, the creation of dominance and subordinate groups, and the reinforcement of social norms. Social inequalities have been addressed in recent years by the implementation of programs that prioritize poverty alleviation, health, and education. However, social stratification still exists. To create a more equitable society, it is necessary to address issues like poverty, geographical differences, and unequal access to resources and opportunities.

Keywords:

• Social
• stratification
• Ethiopia

Reviewing Editor:

• Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, History and Political Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology College of Arts and Social Science, Kumasi, Ghana

Subjects:

• History
• Classical Studies
• Cultural Studies

Acknowledgment

I appreciate my Colleague that initiates me to write this article.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Getahun Worku Tadesse

Getahun Worku Tadesse is a senior lecturer at Werabe University in the department of history and heritage management. He had five years of teaching experience. He got his bachelor degree in history and heritage management and his Masters of Art in historic archaeology. His research areas of interest are art history, social history, social archaeology, and heritage studies.