We honor the memory of all Eritrean men, women, and children whose lives were shattered, interrupted, or extinguished under the force of colonial domination. Italy’s presence in what is now Eritrea began with the establishment of Italian Eritrea — first formally declared a colony in 1890 — and continued through its incorporation into Italian East Africa until Italian control collapsed in 1941 following Allied victories in World War II.

For more than half a century — roughly 1890 to 1941 — Eritreans endured foreign military occupation, dispossession of their lands, suppression of their cultures, and violent repression of dissent under colonial rule.

While exact figures are difficult to ascertain, historical accounts record widespread loss of life among civilians and fighters. Early resistance in the first year of colonization saw the execution of dozens of traditional leaders and hundreds of their followers, and many more suffered imprisonment, exile, or death. Eritreans were also conscripted into Italian military campaigns across Africa, where thousands of indigenous troops perished in battle — a stark reminder of the human cost borne by colonized peoples.

Remembering Eritrean Leaders Who Fell in the Struggle

Among the courageous Eritreans who stood against oppression, several notable figures lost their lives directly at the hands of Italian colonial authorities:

Bahta Hagos — A revered leader who rose in revolt against Italian rule in December 1894. Declaring the desire for freedom from foreign domination, he was killed during the brief uprising at Halay after leading his followers against Italian forces.

Traditional leaders and resistance figures — In the early years of colonization (1889–1890), 12 traditional chiefs and approximately 800 of their followers were killed by Italian forces as they opposed the harsh imposition of colonial control.

Other prominent Eritreans — including Baranbaras Kafl, Degyat Mesfun, Degyat Tesma Immam, Degyat Hadgenbes Gelwet, Kentiba Hailu, and numerous others — were either killed in prison, died in custody, or executed for their opposition.

These leaders, and countless unnamed defenders of their communities, paid the ultimate price for their commitment to justice, autonomy, and dignity.

A Tribute to Courage and a Call to Remember

In honoring these souls, we acknowledge not only their sacrifice but also the enduring resilience of the Eritrean people. Let their stories be a testament to the strength of the human spirit, even in the face of systemic oppression. May we remember all who suffered and died, and commit to uplifting histories that were too often suppressed or forgotten.