Evaluate the role of economic factors in the unification and expansion of the Ethiopian state under Tewodros II.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the role of economic factors in the unification and expansion of the Ethiopian state under Tewodros II, weighing up their individual and/or collective importance. Candidates may refer to early expansion and the absorption of neighbouring agricultural economies by Tewodros, the integration of his economy with those of his subjugated rivals in Shewa and Gojjam, the introduction of a modern tax code and confiscation of church lands, and the establishment of an armaments workshop. While other relevant factors, for example the role of military factors and diplomacy in his early success, or of the role of economic factors in his later decline, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.