Treaties and Trade

Somalia's modern history began in the late 19th century, when various European powers began to trade and establish themselves in the area. The British East India Company's desire for unrestricted harbor facilities led to the conclusion of treaties with the sultan of Tajura as early as 1840. It was not until 1886, however that the British gained control over northern Somalia through treaties with various Somali chiefs who were guaranteed British portection. British objectices centered on safegaurding trade links to the east and securing local sources of food and provisions for its coaling station in Aden. The boundary between Ethiopia and British Somaliland was established in 1897 through treaty negotiations between British negotiators and King Menelik.

http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2863.htm#history