The Amharic language possibly originated as result of a pidginization process with a Cushitic substratum and a Semitic superstratum to enable communication between people who spoke a mix of different languages.

What is the origin of Amharic language?

Amharic came to be lingua franca or widely spoken in Ethiopia from 9th century and became instrument of the state language since 14th century. Amharic has a growing body of literature especially since the advent of the 20th century.

Who made Amharic the official language of Ethiopia?

It was Emperor Haile Selassie (1930-1974), however, who declared Amharic Ethiopia's official language. He came up with a legal framework and language policy with aim of easing communication across the empire's myriad linguistic groups.