Eskander

Eskander (throne name Constantine II) (1472 – 1494) was negus (1478 – 1494) of Ethiopia, and a member of the Solomonid dynasty. He was the son of Baeda Maryam.

Due to his young age, his authority required a regent; although jealous nobles pushed the Queen Mother Eleni aside at first, she quickly regained her place in aiding this young emperor.

European influence was noticable during his reign. In a manuscript written by Francesco Suriano (dated to 1482 by Somigli), Suriano describes finding 10 Italians "of good repute" residing at Eskander's court, some who had been living there for 25 years. Suriano adds that since 1480, seven more had travelled to the Ethiopian court.

It was in the last years of Eskander's reign that Pedro de Covilham arrived in Ethiopia, as an envoy from king John II of Portugal. However, da Covilha was not allowed to return to Portugal, and was forced to live out his days in Ethiopia — although as a trusted advisor to the Emperors.