The history of Ethiopia reads like a political thriller: an empire without a colonial past, dynastic changes, Marxists, wars, and unexpected alliances. The lecture will explore how the country maintained its independence, why it became an important player in the region, and how its experience differs from familiar narratives about Africa and the 20th century. Why did European powers fail to turn Ethiopia into a colony? How did the country participate in World War II? Why did the ancient Solomon dynasty give way to a Marxist regime, and how did Cuban soldiers end up on the side of Ethiopian communists? An interesting aspect is the relations with Eritrea, ethnic politics, changes in ruling groups, and the role of neighboring states. Lecturer Artyom Korobkin will aim to unpack complex material without academic heaviness - through questions that stand behind real historical crossroads.