You're Dead to Me Kingdom of Benin
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Dec 25, 2025 Dive into the fascinating history of the Kingdom of Benin, with powerful rulers like the divine Obas and Queen Idia influencing the culture. Discover the artistic grandeur of the Benin Bronzes, crafted with secret techniques. Explore the tumultuous encounters with Europeans, from coconut diplomacy to the tragic impacts of colonization. The destruction of Benin City in 1897 and the ongoing efforts for artifact restitution add depth to this engaging narrative. Expect laughter, sketches, and a quiz to keep you entertained!
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Founding By A Royal Love Story
- One origin story says Benin began when a neighbouring prince, Oramian, fathered Iweka with a local chief's daughter and Iweka became the first Oba.
- Oral histories inform much of Benin's early narrative, making origins part history and part legend.
Oba Eware's State-Building Reforms
- Oba Eware (Ewuare) transformed Benin by rebuilding the city, strengthening the army and expanding state power in the 15th century.
- Obas were treated as semi-divine figures within a broader polytheistic religious landscape.
Royal Court Scale And Queen Mothers' Power
- Obas kept large royal courts and reportedly hundreds to thousands of wives, while queen mothers (Iyubas) wielded significant influence.
- Queen Idia notably supported military campaigns and received sculptures and a palace from her son.