Mikael of Wollo

Mikael, originally an Oromo Muslim noble named Mohammed Ali, converted to Christianity and adopted the name Mikael. He allied with Emperor Yohannes IV, who appointed him Ras of Wollo, making him a key regional power broker.

Ras Mikael commanded a large contingent of Oromo cavalry at the Battle of Adwa, where Ethiopian forces decisively defeated the Italian army. His troops played a crucial role in the victory, which secured Ethiopian independence.

Mikael supported his grandson, Lij Iyasu, as heir to Emperor Menelik II. After Menelik's death, Mikael became a powerful regent, but Iyasu's controversial policies led to his deposition in 1916, weakening Mikael's position.