Eritrea's Federation Following U.N. Resolution 390A(V)

The adoption of U.N. Resolution 390A(V) led to the federation of Eritrea with Ethiopia, a decision influenced by the United States. This resolution established a framework for a loose federal structure, allowing Eritrea to maintain a degree of autonomy while remaining under the sovereignty of the Ethiopian emperor. Eritrea was granted its own administrative and judicial systems, a new flag, and control over various domestic affairs, including local administration, police, and taxation. However, the federal government, which essentially mirrored the existing imperial government, retained authority over foreign affairs, defense, finance, and transportation. This arrangement was made despite the Eritrean population's aspirations for independence, as the resolution aimed to provide them with democratic rights and a measure of self-governance.