Which of the following best describes why Ethiopia's resistance to Italian imperialism was successful? Ethiopia was never colonized because it arranged a mutually beneficial relationship with the Italians. Ethiopia relied on the Zulu nation in its conflict with Italy because Cetshwayo and Menelik were allies. European alliances gave Ethiopia time and resources to build up its military and infrastructure. Ethiopia was only valued by Italy to keep other Europeans from taking over more valuable African land.

The best description of why Ethiopia successfully resisted Italian imperialism is: **European alliances gave Ethiopia time and resources to build up its military and infrastructure.** **Explanation:** Ethiopia's successful resistance against Italian imperialism, particularly evident in the decisive Battle of Adwa in 1896, can be attributed to several key factors: 1. **Strong Leadership:** Emperor Menelik II played a crucial role in unifying various Ethiopian factions and mobilizing a large, well-organized army. 2. **Modernization Efforts:** Menelik II leveraged European alliances to obtain modern weapons and military training, which significantly enhanced Ethiopia's military capabilities. 3. **Diplomatic Skill:** Ethiopia skillfully navigated international diplomacy to secure support and recognition, thereby delaying and complicating Italy's colonization efforts. 4. **Infrastructure Development:** With the assistance of European allies, Ethiopia invested in building infrastructure, such as roads and communication networks, which facilitated the rapid mobilization of troops and resources when needed. 5. **Effective Use of Terrain:** Ethiopian forces capitalized on their knowledge of the local terrain, which was advantageous in defensive battles against the invading Italians. These factors combined allowed Ethiopia to effectively resist Italian aggression and maintain its sovereignty during a period when many African nations were falling under European colonial rule. **Incorrect Options Explained:** - **Mutually beneficial relationship:** Ethiopia did engage in diplomatic relations with Italy, but it was not a mutually beneficial arrangement that prevented colonization. The relationship was more confrontational, especially during the wars for independence. - **Zulu alliances:** There is no historical evidence to support a significant alliance between Ethiopia and the Zulu nation in the context of resisting Italian imperialism. Cetshwayo, the Zulu king, died in 1884, before the major conflicts between Ethiopia and Italy escalated. - **Italy's motives:** While it's true that Italy valued Ethiopia as a strategic location to prevent other European powers from gaining more valuable territories, this doesn't directly explain Ethiopia's successful resistance. **Conclusion:** Ethiopia's ability to build and modernize its military and infrastructure, aided by strategic European alliances, was pivotal in its successful resistance against Italian imperialism. **Answer:** European alliances gave Ethiopia time and resources to build up its military and infrastructure.