Battle of Debre Abbay: Ras Marye defeats Sabagadis in Tigray (1831)

The Battle of Debre Abbay occurred on 14 February 1831 in Tigray, pitting Ras Marye of Yejju against Dejazmach Sabagadis. Although Marye died during the engagement, his forces defeated Sabagadis, who was subsequently executed by Oromo soldiers seeking revenge for their leader's death.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Ras Marye, an Oromo regent, faced resentment from Christian nobles. Sabagadis, governor of Tigray, had previously rebelled against his overlord and formed alliances against Marye. In 1830, Sabagadis failed to aid Wube against Marye's invasion, leading to a shift in alliances where Wube sided with Marye against Sabagadis.

Campaign. Following the alliance shift, Wube and Marye launched a military campaign into Tigray in February 1831. Marye advanced beyond the Tekezé River with contingents from Wollo, Yejju, Begemder, and Amhara, supported by the armies of Wube and Goshu. Sabagadis rejected advice to wait near Adigrat, choosing to engage the enemy directly.

Outcome. The forces met near the Tekezé River in western Tigray. Sabagadis' army was overwhelmed in what was described as the bloodiest battle of the Zemene Mesafint. Sabagadis was captured and executed on 15 February by Oromo soldiers in retaliation for the death of Ras Marye during the battle.

People involved

Sources

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