Italy is the next source of danger…

Italy is the next source of danger to Ethiopia.

The Italian government takes over the port of Aseb in 1882 from the Rubattino Shipping Company, which had purchased it from a local ruler some years before.

Italy's main interest is not the port but the eventual colonization of Ethiopia.

In the process, the Italians enter into a long-term relationship with Menelik.

The main Italian drive is begun in 1885 from Mitsiwa, which Italy had occupied.

From this port, the Italians begin to penetrate the hinterland, with British encouragement.

In 1887, after the Italians are soundly defeated at Dogali by Ras Alula, the governor of northeastern Tigray, they send a stronger force into the area.