Abyssinia (1896) Background: Abyssinia (modern day Ethiopia and Eritrea) was the site of several colonial conflicts, but is best known for the defeat of Italy at the Battle of Adowa. Links The Italian Invasion of Abyssinia 1896 First Italo-Abyssinian War 1895-1896 Victoria Crosses earned during the Abyssinia Expedition (1867-1868) Wargames "Assemble the army, beat the drum!" Wargaming 19th Century Abyssinia After Napier (1875-1896)