Ethiopia is a multi-ethnic state with over 80 different ethnic groups. Christianity is the most widely professed faith in the country, with the largest denomination being the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, followed by Islam and a small percentage of traditional faiths.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church, introduced in the 4th century, is one of the oldest organized Christian bodies in the world. It has played a dominant role in Ethiopia’s culture and politics, serving as the official religion until 1974.
Ethiopia is the oldest independent country in Africa and one of the world's oldest - it exists for at least 2,000 years. The country comprises more than 80 ethnic groups and as many languages. Primarily their shared independent existence unites Ethiopia's many nations.
Founded in 980 B.C., Ethiopia is one of the oldest nations in the world. [12] Ethiopia has been described as a "museum of peoples" because of its long history and diversity. [1] Some of the earliest hominid populations lived in Ethiopia.