Dahomey

Dahomey is a historical kingdom located in the area of the present-day country of Benin. It was established around 1600 by the Fon, a West African ethnic group, and lasted until 1894 when the last king, Behanzin, was defeated by the French, and the country was incorporated into the French colonial empire.

History

The Kingdom of Dahomey was established around 1600 by the Fon people who had recently settled in the area. The Fon were originally from the area that is now Togo and had moved to the Abomey plateau in the early 17th century. The kingdom grew rapidly under King Houegbadja (1645–1685), who made it a major regional power.

The kingdom was known for its culture and traditions. Young boys were often apprenticed to older soldiers, and taught the kingdom's military customs until they were old enough to join the army. Dahomey was also famous for its Dahomey Amazons, an all-female regiment.

Economy

Dahomey's economy was largely based on agriculture, with significant production of cotton, palm oil, and yams. The kingdom was also a major center of the Atlantic slave trade during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Decline and fall

The kingdom began to decline in the late 18th century, due to internal strife and pressure from the European powers. The last king, Behanzin, fought the French in the Franco-Dahomean Wars, but was defeated and exiled in 1894. The kingdom was then incorporated into the French colonial empire.

Legacy

Today, the history and culture of Dahomey are preserved in the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site includes the palaces of twelve kings, from King Ghezo to King Behanzin, and is a major tourist attraction in Benin.

Dahomey Resources
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