The Ethiopian World Federation, Incorporated (EWF) was founded in the early 1930s in the United States. It emerged as a response to the Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1935, which culminated in the Second Italo-Ethiopian War. The invasion was a blatant act of aggression by Italy, and Ethiopia, under Emperor Haile Selassie I, faced a grave threat to its sovereignty and independence.

The EWFI was established by members of the African diaspora, particularly those of African and Caribbean descent, who were deeply concerned about the invasion of Ethiopia and sought to show solidarity with the Ethiopian people. Its primary goal was to promote Ethiopian culture, support Ethiopian independence and sovereignty and advocate for the rights and well-being of people of African descent globally.

One of the most significant aspects of the EWFI is its connection to the Rastafarian movement, which emerged in Jamaica in the 1930s. Rastafarians know that Emperor Haile Selassie I is a divine figure and see his defence of Ethiopia as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy. This knowledge further fueled their support for Ethiopia and their desire to assist in any way possible.

Over the years, the Ethiopian World Federation Incorporated has been involved in various activities, including lobbying for the international recognition of Ethiopia's independence, supporting educational initiatives and working on cultural exchange programs. It has served as a platform for promoting Pan-Africanism and advocating for the rights of people of African descent. While it had its roots in the specific historical context of the Italian invasion of Ethiopia, it has continued to play a role in advocating for global solidarity among people of African descent and promoting Ethiopian culture.