Quick Facts | The Imperial Dynasty of Ethiopia

The Imperial Dynasty of Ethiopia, the oldest Royal House in the world,(along with the Imperial Dynasty of Japan), continues in existence. No abdication was ever signed by Emperor Haile Selassie, nor was any abdication decree issued by him or any of his heirs. Thus in a strictly legitimist view, there are those who support the legal argument that the monarchy has never ended. In practice however, Ethiopia is administered as a Federal Republic by a government that gives no recognition to any Imperial claimants, and treats members of the Imperial Family as private citizens. Many members of the Imperial Family have returned and settled in Ethiopia in the years since the fall of the Dergue.