How did Liberia and Ethiopia remain independent from imperialism?

Liberia and Ethiopia remained independent from Imperialism through a combination of strategic diplomacy and military resistance. Liberia was founded as a settlement for freed American slaves, which garnered it some international support, while its political ties with the United States helped it maintain sovereignty. Ethiopia, on the other hand, successfully defeated Italian forces at the Battle of Adwa in 1896, asserting its independence and serving as a symbol of African resistance to colonization. Both nations navigated complex international relations, leveraging their unique positions to avoid colonization.