Unzip the ADOWA.SCE file to the scenario directory in your rifles directory to play.
What little historical information I could find on the Battle of Adowa came mostly from "The Scramble for Africa" by Thomas Pakenham (Random House 1991). Those interested in more information regarding the battle are referred there. Because of the scarcity of historical material regarding the battle, I am making no claim to the authenticity of the forces, etc. However, I hope I have captured some of the flavor of the actual conflict.
Briefly, the battle was an utter disaster for the Italians, while Ethiopia gained not only respect from the countries of Europe, but recognition of its independence as well. Liberia was the only other African nation not subjected to foreign rule during the late 19th and early 20th century.
The Italian forces have marched most of the night, and arrive on the field tired. They are separated due to a series of errors, including some faulty map reading. In the actual battle, the Ethiopians were able to attack the Italians' Native Brigade and Third Brigade seperately, and then overran the remaining Italian positions. The Italian army was routed from the field.
