1900
-Menelik decides to go all-out on modernisation, and brings in multiple advisors from Japan and the West, particularly the US, both of whom are not in the general attempts by Europe to keep Ethiopia down and open for colonising.
1901
-After hearing of the terracing techniques used in East Asia, the emperor decides that this would be the best way to make use of the hilly highland terrain.
-Menelik establishes the Ethiopian Parliament, although its members are appointed by the local rulers, it is a step foward.
1903
-A railroad connecting Gondar to Addis Ababa is finished.
-Menelik, reversing a policy of his, seizes large tracts of land and declares them to be the property of the state.
-The first popularly elected MPs are elected to Parliament, from Addis Ababa.
1904
-The government melts down all Maria Theresa Thalers in its possession and mints new Ethiopian Taleri. The coins are smaller, 30 mm instead of the 39.5 mm, allowing for some 30% more coins. A few paper bills are printed, but are used exlcusively within royal circles, except for some which slipped out.