Key Events
C.1500 BENIN TRADES SLAVES
In the centuries following contact with the Portuguese, the Kingdom of Benin begins to use slaves in trade deals. However, in 1516 Benin bans the trade of male slaves with Portugal who were previously sent to Portuguese colonies in Africa.
The Benin slave trade was supplied using prisoners captured during wars with neighbouring states.
C.1700 SACRIFICE OF IDEN
Queen Iden sacrifices herself to the gods in order to secure the reign of her unpopular husband, Oba Ewuakpe. She is buried alive at the Oba Market and shortly after Ewuakpe’s authority is restored. Peace returns to the kingdom.
THE KINGDOM IS FOUNDED c.900