Iyoas I vs Pragmulji II of Kutch

Iyoas I became Emperor of Ethiopia at age 15 following the death of his father, Iyasu II. His reign was dominated by the rivalry between his mother, Empress Mentewab, and the powerful noble Ras Mikael Sehul.

A power struggle erupted between Empress Mentewab and Ras Mikael Sehul over control of the young emperor. Mikael Sehul, who had married Iyoas's aunt, gained dominance and effectively ruled the empire, sidelining the empress.

Ras Mikael Sehul ordered the assassination of Emperor Iyoas I after a dispute. This regicide shattered the traditional authority of the Solomonic dynasty and plunged Ethiopia into the Zemene Mesafint (Era of the Princes), a period of decentralized rule and civil war lasting until 1855.

Pragmulji II became Maharao of Kutch at age 21 after the death of his father. His reign focused on administrative reforms and modernization, including the construction of infrastructure and public buildings.

Pragmulji II commissioned the construction of the Prag Mahal Palace in Bhuj, designed in Italian Gothic style by British architect Colonel Henry Saint Clair Wilkins. The palace was completed after his death by his son Khengarji III.

Pragmulji II introduced administrative reforms including a modern revenue system, judiciary, and police force. He established schools and hospitals, improving governance and public welfare in the princely state.

Pragmulji II died in 1875 after a 15-year reign. He was succeeded by his son Khengarji III. His reforms and architectural projects laid the foundation for Kutch's modernization under his successor.