This publication is a translation from Russian to English of two works by Alexander Bulatovich: From Entotto to the River Baro, and With the Armies of Menelik II. This is a unique and detailed first-hand account of Ethiopia in 1896-1898, at the change of an era, by a Russian officer with remarkable understanding for the many varied people who lived there and keen insight into their destiny. Previously, these works were only available in Russian.

From Entotto to the River Baro was first published in 1897 in St. Petersburg by Kirschbaum Press, and reissued by the Institute of Oriental Studies in Moscow in 1971. This book consists of two short journals of expeditions in Ethiopia from 1896 to 1897, plus a series of essays which deal with various peoples of Ethiopia-- Galla/Oromo, Sidama, Amhara, and others-- and their history, culture, beliefs, languages, government, military, and commerce.

With the Armies of Menelik II was first published in 1900 in St. Petersburg by Artistic Press, and reissued by the Institute of Oriental Studies in 1971. This is the journal of Bulatovich's second trip to Ethiopia in 1897 to 1898 during which he served as an advisor to the army of Ras Wolde Giyorgis as it conquered the previously little-known southwestern territories from Kaffa to Lake Rudolf.

Bulatovich had learned Amharic and a smattering of other languages during his first trip to Ethiopia with the Russian Red Cross Mission. He was a careful observer who respected the people and the country. He had the instincts, although not the training, of an anthropologist. His writing is clear, with immediacy, conveying a sense of being there.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Richard Seltzer worked for Digital/Compaq for 19 years, focusing on the Internet for the last five years. He is now an independent Internet writer/speaker/consultant, acting as an advocate for full and more effective use of the Internet for business and education. He also hosts a weekly chat session on Business on the World Wide Web. In addition, Seltzer runs his own small publishing business on the Internet (The B&R Samizdat Express), and is the author of novels and children's books. His acclaimed web site is frequently cited as an important resource for education and the blind.

CATEGORY
History, Politics, Travel/AFRICA