End of Year Exam | The Kingdom of Benin

Question 1

When was the kingdom of Benin founded?

Answer 1

12th Century AD

Question 2

How did Benin come to be?

Answer 2

Around 900 AD, Igodomigodo was founded, however in the 1100, the kings there lost power, leading to the creation of Benin

Question 3

Who was the Leader of Benin?

Answer 3

The Oba - the first of which being called Eweka

Question 4

What were the people of Benin called?

Answer 4

‘Edos’

Question 5

What was the power of the Oba like?

Answer 5

The Oba was the divine ruler of Benin, but established town chiefs, giving the Oba much greater rule over the nation. As well as this, the Oba was also seen as a godly figure, giving the people even motr love for him.

Question 6

What was the currency of Benin

Answer 6

Cowrie Seashell

Question 7

When did Benin first make contact with Portugal?

Answer 7

Late 1400’s

Question 8

What did benin trade with europe?

Answer 8

Natural resources like gold, ivory and pepper and palm oil in return for European industrial machinations such as guns and manillas, but didn’t trade slave like the rest of Western Africa