This West African kingdom, located in present-day Benin, rose to prominence in the 17th and 18th centuries. It was characterized by its highly centralized state, sophisticated military organization, and significant involvement in the Atlantic slave trade. The kingdom distinguished itself through its unique social structure, including an elite female warrior corps, which contributed significantly to its military power.
The kingdom’s economic prosperity and political influence were intricately linked to its participation in the transatlantic slave trade. It exchanged enslaved people for European goods such as firearms, which further enhanced its military capabilities and consolidated its power in the region. This interaction with European powers shaped its development and ultimately contributed to its decline during the 19th century when European abolitionist movements gained momentum and threatened its economic foundation.