3.1 The political, social and economic development of Benin Flashcards
What were the main items of trade in Benin?
- Peppers
- Cloths
- Leopard skins
- Palm oil
- Coral beads
- Yams
- Wood
- Water
- Iron tools and weapons
- Household goods
These items reflect the diverse economy of Benin during its peak trading periods.
What was the impact of the slave trade on Benin?
The slave trade had a devastating impact on Benin, affecting its economy, social structure, and political power.
The extent of this impact is a subject of historical debate.
How did Edo’s urban configuration change over time?
Edo expanded dramatically in the 16th and 17th centuries, transitioning from houses made of sun-dried bricks to more structured homes resembling those in Holland.
Observations from travelers highlighted the transformation of Edo’s architecture and urban planning.
Who were the key political figures in Benin’s governance?
- The oba (king)
- Three Overseers (Fiador)
- Town chiefs (eghaevo n’ore)
- Palace chiefs (eghaevo n’ogbe)
- Chamberlains (iwebo)
- Household officers (iwegune)
- Attendants of the king’s family (ibiwe)
These figures were part of a hierarchical structure that governed Benin.
What economic changes occurred in Benin from 1500 to 1600?
The establishment of viable foreign trade and significant inflation in currency, particularly copper manilas and cowries, leading to increased market activity.
The rise in the price of slaves and growth in agricultural production were notable outcomes of these changes.
Fill in the blank: The key currency initially used in Benin was _______.
[copper manilas]
What were the consequences of the expanding currency base in Benin?
- Collection of tolls and taxes
- Expansion of state infrastructure
- Financing of a growing army
- Thriving markets
The influx of currency facilitated various aspects of economic and social development in Benin.
By 1600, what types of goods were commonly traded in Benin markets?
- Live dogs
- Roasted monkeys
- Catfish
- Yams
- Manigette pepper
- Dried lizards
- Palm oil
- Ironwork
- Cotton thread
These goods illustrate the diversity of the Benin economy.
How did the slave trade affect agricultural production in Benin?
The need for provisions for slave ships led to increased agricultural production and systematization of farming practices.
This marked a shift from subsistence to more commercial agricultural practices.
What role did iron play in Benin’s economic development?
Iron became crucial for agricultural tools, enhancing productivity and supporting the growing agricultural demands of the region.
The increased supply of iron from trade allowed for improvements in farming efficiency.
What led to the collapse of the economic system in the later 17th century?
- Increased inflation
- Decline in cowrie supplies
- Shift in European trade focus from cloth to slaves
- Loss of demand for Benin cloth
These factors contributed to economic instability in Benin.
How did the oba maintain control over Benin?
The oba’s hereditary position and the establishment of a powerful council of state (Uzama Nihinron) helped maintain a stable political structure.
This lineage allowed for centralized power and governance.
True or False: The oba’s title was first taken by Eweka I around 1200.
True
What was the primary reason for the obas’ ability to sustain and expand their rulership?
The hereditary nature of the oba’s title allowed a single group to control the vast political system of Benin.
This stability was crucial for the governance of the kingdom.
Who was the first oba of Benin?
Eweka I
How long did the obas reign in an unbroken line?
Nearly 700 years
What title did Eweka create for influential individuals?
Councillors of State or Kingmakers (Uzama Nihinron)
What significant posts did Ewedo create?
- Keeper of the oba’s wardrobe
- Recorder of deaths
- Keeper of the harem
What was the ideological basis for the oba’s control?
His divinity
What was the estimated military capability of the oba according to Dapper?
20,000 men ready for war in one day
What was the main political weapon of the oba?
Manipulation of the Eghaevbo institutions
What was the economic responsibility of the people towards the oba?
Support and maintenance of his palace
What external factor increased the demand for slaves in Benin?
The development of the Atlantic slave trade
What was one of the first activities of the Portuguese on the Lower Guinea coast?
Transporting slaves from Benin to the Akan country
What led to the shift in European trade focus from spices to slave trade?
The introduction of Indian spices made Beni pepper less in demand
What was the taboo regarding slave sales in Edo culture?
No Edo person could be involved in the sales
What was the embargo on male slave sales from 1530 to 1700?
A total embargo on the sale of male slaves
What significant change occurred in Benin’s military expeditions due to the slave trade?
Increased reliance on captured slaves for military service
What was a major outcome of Benin’s military campaigns in the C15?
Establishment of military outposts in eastern Yorubaland
What was the impact of the slave trade on Benin’s provinces?
Increased economic autonomy of outlying provinces
What characterized the relationship between Benin and its neighboring states by 1600?
Participation in the slave trade
What did the arrival of rival European powers change?
The dynamics of trade and political relationships
What was the common argument about the impact of the slave trade on Benin?
Gradual moral and cultural degeneration from the end of C17
According to chronicler Nyendael, what was the state of Edo by the end of C17?
Desolate and depopulated due to civil war
What did many historians connect with Benin’s decline?
The rise of the slave trade
What did Koslow argue about the effects of the slave trade on Benin’s society?
‘Corrupted the society of Benin’
The obas were seen as vital for what purpose?
Warfare
What types of items were traded by Benin in exchange for slaves?
- Copper
- Brass
- Glass beads
- European textiles
Fill in the blank: The oba ruled with _______ power.
absolute and harsh
True or False: The oba had the authority to lead soldiers to war personally until c1600.
True
