Society & State in Ethiopian History is a compilation of essays pursuing the widest range of Ethiopian topics, celebrating the resiliency of the Ethiopian people, and the nation's complicated history and destiny. The author assumes a quiet patriotism as he faces some of the most formidable issues facing the historical and modern day aspects of Ethiopia: ethno-history, political economy, urban development, and economic history with a constructive sensitivity. Zewde's essays narrate and provide refreshing insight into the major events spanning from 1930-1990's, beginning with the resistance against the Italian invasion to the current period dominated by radical politics. Numerous chapters focus on the responsibility of the intellectuals in the making and unmaking of a nation amidst great political and cultural turbulence. The book inspires the reader to fight for social justice, combat ethnic nationalism, and work towards national and regional unity in northeast Africa. Zewde's essays not only contribute to the body of knowledge about modern and contemporary Ethiopian society, but also affirm that a past filled with adversity should not impede a positive future for Ethiopia.