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