A Historical Account of Bičana Wäräda in East Gojjam, 1941-1991

Abstract The main aim of this thesis is reconstruct the administrative and socio-economic history of Bičana Wäräda from 1941-1991.The study covers the time from the liberation of Ethiopia and the restoration of Emperor Hailä Selasié I to power in 1941 until the removal of the Därg government in 1991, in which the inhabitants of the Wäräda like the other countryside peoples of Amhara region observed important socio-economic and political developments. It begins with the thesis the historical study of the district by revealing different developments in the Wäräda before and after the Italian occupation. The restoration of the Imperial administration and the reforms that took place by the Imperial government in various fields, in connection with the administration and land related issues and the response of the peoples of the Wäräda to these changes will be the main area of concern. Besides this, the study points out the patriotic resistance and views on peasant’s rebellion in the district. Moreover, the study attempted to assess changes and developments that the Wäräda had gone through during the military government. The Därg was interested to consolidate its power by taking different measures which had their own merits and demerits on the political and socio-economic conditions for the inhabitants of Bičana Wäräda. Besides this, the study has tried to address the political and socio economic situation of the district.