Ethiopia and the Black Diaspora: The Career of Dr. Malaku Bayyan

Abstract

Background: Greek in ongm, the name "Ethiopia" has served for many centuries as a generic appellation for the darker races of the less known African landmass to the south of Egypt. It has also often had a particular resonance among Africans and peoples of African descent. This phenomenon has two origins. Firstly, it had its genesis in the Bible, more specifically in the oft-quoted lines: "Ethiopia shall stretch forth her hands unto God". Not only have these words been enshrined as a national motto in the country that has now officially adopted that name, but they have also inspired amongst the downtrodden and the oppressed courage and faith in ultimate redress.