The Rule of Halie Selassie There is no understanding to modern Ethiopia without a grasp of Haile Sellassie's life. Sellassie would prove to be one of Ethiopia's most noble leaders. He pushed education for his people. He made a valiant effort to drag Ethiopia out of its stagnant state of unpaved roads, minimal schools, very little education, and views on international affairs. He looked and carried himself like a king. The Ethiopian Emperor traditionally took the title of King of King, Lion of the Tribe of Judah as a title. He was also believed to be a descendent from the line of David by Solomon. The old Ethiopian legend of Kebra Hegast tells the story of the Queen of Sheb